2003 Lotus Exige vs. 2000 Mazda 323
To start off, 2003 Lotus Exige is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Mazda 323 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) has 101 more horse power than 2000 Mazda 323. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lotus Exige should accelerate faster than 2000 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Mazda 323 weights approximately 367 kg more than 2003 Lotus Exige.
Because 2003 Lotus Exige is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2003 Lotus Exige. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 Mazda 323, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 59 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Lotus Exige will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Lotus Exige | 2000 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | Exige | 323 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 780 kg | 1147 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3800 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 55 L |
