2006 Lotus Elise vs. 1980 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2006 Lotus Elise is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1980 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Lotus Elise (189 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1980 Mazda RX-7. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1980 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 274 kg more than 2006 Lotus Elise.
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, 2006 Lotus Elise (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Lotus Elise | 1980 Mazda RX-7 | |
Make | Lotus | Mazda |
Model | Elise | RX-7 |
Year Released | 2006 | 1980 |
Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2292 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 189 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 168 Nm | 145 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 786 kg | 1060 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4290 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1270 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2430 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 65 L |