1974 Datsun 260Z vs. 2002 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2002 Lotus Esprit is newer by 28 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 3,504 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lotus Esprit (350 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 187 more horse power than 1974 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1974 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 140 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, 2002 Lotus Esprit (400 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 187 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2002 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 | 2002 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Datsun | Lotus |
| Model | 260Z | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2565 cc | 3504 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 350 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 213 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 81 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2581 mm | 2430 mm |
