1963 Lotus Elan vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 1978 Datsun 260Z is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,565 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Datsun 260Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Datsun 260Z (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1963 Lotus Elan. (100 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 1963 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Datsun 260Z weights approximately 506 kg more than 1963 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1978 Datsun 260Z (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 Lotus Elan. (138 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1978 Datsun 260Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1963 Lotus Elan | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Lotus | Datsun |
| Model | Elan | 260Z |
| Year Released | 1963 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 138 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.7 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 594 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 60 L |
