1968 Datsun 1800 vs. 1991 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1991 Lotus Esprit is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Datsun 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Datsun 1800 would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Esprit (172 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1968 Datsun 1800. (106 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1968 Datsun 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 209 kg more than 1968 Datsun 1800. 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, 1991 Lotus Esprit (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Datsun 1800. (156 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1991 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Datsun 1800.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Datsun 1800 | 1991 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Datsun | Lotus |
| Model | 1800 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1816 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 73 L |
