2005 Lotus Exige vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Lotus Exige. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Lotus Exige would be higher. At 2,261 cc, 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (257 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2005 Lotus Exige. (243 HP @ 7800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster 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, 2008 Mazda 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, 2008 Mazda 3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Lotus Exige. (236 Nm @ 7000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Lotus Exige.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Lotus Exige | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | Exige | 3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2261 cc |
| Horse Power | 243 HP | 257 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 7000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 94 mm |
| Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3800 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 55 L |
