2009 Lotus Elise vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Lotus Elise. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Lotus Elise would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2009 Lotus Elise. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Lotus Elise. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 3 weights approximately 418 kg more than 2009 Lotus Elise. 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, 2012 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, 2012 Mazda 3 (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Lotus Elise. (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Lotus Elise | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Lotus | Mazda |
Model | Elise | 3 |
Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 120 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 168 Nm | 183 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 882 kg | 1300 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4590 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1755 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1471 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2639 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 32 L | 55 L |