2003 Lotus Exige vs. 1971 ZAZ 966
To start off, 2003 Lotus Exige is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 ZAZ 966. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 ZAZ 966 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Lotus Exige is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lotus Exige (175 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 1971 ZAZ 966. (27 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lotus Exige should accelerate faster than 1971 ZAZ 966. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lotus Exige weights approximately 40 kg more than 1971 ZAZ 966. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2003 Lotus Exige (168 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 ZAZ 966. (52 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Lotus Exige will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 ZAZ 966.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Lotus Exige | 1971 ZAZ 966 | |
| Make | Lotus | ZAZ |
| Model | Exige | 966 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 885 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 27 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 52 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 780 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3800 mm | 3740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2170 mm |
