2007 Lotus Elise vs. 2003 Mazda 323
To start off, 2007 Lotus Elise is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Lotus Elise (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 323. (97 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 323 weights approximately 279 kg more than 2007 Lotus Elise.
Because 2007 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 2007 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2007 Lotus Elise (169 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 323. (145 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2007 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
2007 Lotus Elise | 2003 Mazda 323 | |
Make | Lotus | Mazda |
Model | Elise | 323 |
Year Released | 2007 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 120 HP | 97 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 169 Nm | 145 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3700 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 881 kg | 1160 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4500 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2620 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 32 L | 55 L |