1974 Datsun 260Z vs. 1989 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1989 Lotus Esprit is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Datsun 260Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Datsun 260Z would be higher. At 2,565 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Datsun 260Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lotus Esprit (264 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1974 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1974 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 229 kg more than 1974 Datsun 260Z. 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, 1989 Lotus Esprit (353 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1989 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Datsun 260Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Datsun 260Z | 1989 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Datsun | Lotus |
| Model | 260Z | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2565 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 264 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 213 Nm | 353 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 256 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4135 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 31 L |
