1970 Datsun 1200 vs. 1999 Lotus Elise
To start off, 1999 Lotus Elise is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Datsun 1200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Datsun 1200 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Lotus Elise (118 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1970 Datsun 1200. (69 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1970 Datsun 1200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Lotus Elise weights approximately 13 kg more than 1970 Datsun 1200. 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, 1999 Lotus Elise (165 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Datsun 1200. (95 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Datsun 1200.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Datsun 1200 | 1999 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Datsun | Lotus |
| Model | 1200 | Elise |
| Year Released | 1970 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1171 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 89.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 695 kg | 708 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 3730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 39 L | 40 L |
