2009 Lotus Elise vs. 2003 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Lotus Elise is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 3 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 (218 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 3. (100 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 3 weights approximately 310 kg more than 2009 Lotus Elise.
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, 2003 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, 2009 Lotus Elise (212 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Lotus Elise | 2003 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Lotus | Mazda |
Model | Elise | 3 |
Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1600 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 218 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 212 Nm | 145 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1260 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.1 L/100km | 6 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption City | 11.8 L/100km | 9.3 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.8 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 55 L |