2005 Lotus Elise vs. 1985 Mazda 323
To start off, 2005 Lotus Elise is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lotus Elise (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 323. (103 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mazda 323 weights approximately 155 kg more than 2005 Lotus Elise.
Because 2005 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 2005 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 2005 Lotus Elise (174 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (137 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2005 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Lotus Elise | 1985 Mazda 323 | |
Make | Lotus | Mazda |
Model | Elise | 323 |
Year Released | 2005 | 1985 |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1597 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 120 HP | 103 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 174 Nm | 137 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 78 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 785 kg | 940 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 |