1976 Datsun Violet vs. 1987 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1987 Lotus Esprit is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Datsun Violet. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Datsun Violet would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Lotus Esprit (172 HP) has 91 more horse power than 1976 Datsun Violet. (81 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1976 Datsun Violet. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 159 kg more than 1976 Datsun Violet. 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, 1987 Lotus Esprit (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Datsun Violet. (120 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1987 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Datsun Violet.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Datsun Violet | 1987 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Datsun | Lotus |
| Model | Violet | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 172 HP |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.7 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 10.9:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 945 kg | 1104 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 67 L |
