2005 Lotus Elise vs. 1976 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 2005 Lotus Elise is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 1,964 cc, 1976 Mazda RX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lotus Elise (190 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1976 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1976 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Lotus Elise weights approximately 46 kg more than 1976 Mazda RX-3. 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, 2005 Lotus Elise (187 Nm) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm). This means 2005 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Lotus Elise | 1976 Mazda RX-3 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | Elise | RX-3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1964 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 896 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2320 mm |
