2004 Lotus Esprit vs. 1995 Mazda 323
To start off, 2004 Lotus Esprit is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 3,507 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Lotus Esprit (350 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 268 more horse power than 1995 Mazda 323. (82 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1995 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 205 kg more than 1995 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Lotus Esprit 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 Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 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 Esprit (400 Nm) has 232 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Mazda 323. (168 Nm). This means 2004 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Lotus Esprit | 1995 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | Esprit | 323 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3507 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 82 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1430 mm |
