2005 Lotus Exige vs. 1980 Mazda 323
To start off, 2005 Lotus Exige is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Lotus Exige is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lotus Exige (243 HP) has 169 more horse power than 1980 Mazda 323. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lotus Exige should accelerate faster than 1980 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Lotus Exige weights approximately 50 kg more than 1980 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 2005 Lotus Exige (236 Nm @ 7000 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mazda 323. (116 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Lotus Exige will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Lotus Exige | 1980 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | Exige | 323 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1490 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 243 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 7000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 77.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 80 mm |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3800 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 45 L |
