1970 Datsun 1200 vs. 2005 Lotus Exige
To start off, 2005 Lotus Exige is newer by 35 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), 2005 Lotus Exige is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lotus Exige (243 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 174 more horse power than 1970 Datsun 1200. (69 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lotus Exige should accelerate faster than 1970 Datsun 1200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Lotus Exige weights approximately 235 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, 2005 Lotus Exige (236 Nm @ 7000 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Datsun 1200. (95 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Lotus Exige will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Datsun 1200.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Datsun 1200 | 2005 Lotus Exige | |
| Make | Datsun | Lotus |
| Model | 1200 | Exige |
| Year Released | 1970 | 2005 |
| 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 | 243 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7800 RPM |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.1 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 85 mm |
| 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 | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 3800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 39 L | 40 L |
