2005 Lotus Exige vs. 1995 Mazda MX-3
To start off, 2005 Lotus Exige is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Mazda MX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Mazda MX-3 would be higher. At 2,998 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Lotus Exige is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lotus Exige (396 HP @ 7750 RPM) has 290 more horse power than 1995 Mazda MX-3. (106 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lotus Exige should accelerate faster than 1995 Mazda MX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Mazda MX-3 weights approximately 209 kg more than 2005 Lotus Exige.
Because 2005 Lotus Exige 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 Exige. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 Mazda MX-3, 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 Exige (400 Nm @ 6500 RPM) has 266 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Mazda MX-3. (134 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2005 Lotus Exige will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Mazda MX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Lotus Exige | 1995 Mazda MX-3 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | Exige | MX-3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1995 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2998 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 396 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7750 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1059 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2460 mm |
