1974 Datsun 260Z vs. 2007 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2007 Lotus Elise is newer by 33 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, 1974 Datsun 260Z (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 2007 Lotus Elise. (120 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 2007 Lotus Elise. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Datsun 260Z weights approximately 415 kg more than 2007 Lotus Elise. 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, 1974 Datsun 260Z (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Lotus Elise. (168 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1974 Datsun 260Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Datsun 260Z | 2007 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Datsun | Lotus |
| Model | 260Z | Elise |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2565 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 213 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 197 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8 seconds | 5.9 seconds |
| 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 | 785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2581 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 32 L |
