1977 Datsun 280 vs. 1959 Lotus Elite
To start off, 1977 Datsun 280 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 2,751 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Datsun 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Datsun 280 (125 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1959 Lotus Elite. (71 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1977 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 1959 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Datsun 280 weights approximately 795 kg more than 1959 Lotus Elite. 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, 1977 Datsun 280 (197 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Lotus Elite. (104 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1977 Datsun 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Datsun 280 | 1959 Lotus Elite | |
| Make | Datsun | Lotus |
| Model | 280 | Elite |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1959 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 1216 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 197 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1190 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 71 L | 29 L |
