1966 Lotus Seven vs. 1974 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 1974 Datsun 260Z is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 2,565 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Datsun 260Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Datsun 260Z (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1966 Lotus Seven. (38 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 1966 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Datsun 260Z weights approximately 668 kg more than 1966 Lotus Seven. 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. 1974 Datsun 260Z has automatic transmission and 1966 Lotus Seven has manual transmission. 1966 Lotus Seven will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Datsun 260Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Lotus Seven | 1974 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Lotus | Datsun |
| Model | Seven | 260Z |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 997 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 432 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3360 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1100 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 60 L |
