2009 Lotus Elise vs. 1988 Mazda 323
To start off, 2009 Lotus Elise is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lotus Elise (189 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1988 Mazda 323. (66 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1988 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lotus Elise weights approximately 80 kg more than 1988 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 2009 Lotus Elise (181 Nm @ 6800 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mazda 323. (101 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Lotus Elise | 1988 Mazda 323 | |
Make | Lotus | Mazda |
Model | Elise | 323 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1324 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 189 HP | 66 HP |
Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 181 Nm | 101 Nm |
Torque RPM | 6800 RPM | 3600 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 | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 870 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1660 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2410 mm |