2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2010 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2010 Lotus Elise is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 1,998 cc, 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Lotus Elise (433 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 288 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Lotus Elise weights approximately 639 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2010 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 2010 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2010 Lotus Elise (489 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 308 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2010 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3. 2010 Lotus Elise has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Lotus Elise will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2010 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Mazda | Lotus |
| Model | 3 | Elise |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1800 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 433 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 489 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1881 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4882 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1915 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1354 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2941 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 86 L |
