2004 Lotus Elise vs. 1987 Mazda 323
To start off, 2004 Lotus Elise is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Lotus Elise (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1987 Mazda 323. (66 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1987 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Mazda 323 weights approximately 120 kg more than 2004 Lotus Elise.
Because 2004 Lotus Elise 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 2004 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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, 2004 Lotus Elise (172 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Mazda 323. (101 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2004 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Lotus Elise | 1987 Mazda 323 | |
Make | Lotus | Mazda |
Model | Elise | 323 |
Year Released | 2004 | 1987 |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1324 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 120 HP | 66 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 172 Nm | 101 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 750 kg | 870 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1660 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2410 mm |