1977 Datsun 280 vs. 1996 Lotus Elise
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elise is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Datsun 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Datsun 280 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 9 more horse power than 1996 Lotus Elise. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1977 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 1996 Lotus Elise. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Datsun 280 weights approximately 670 kg more than 1996 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, 1977 Datsun 280 (197 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elise. (169 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1977 Datsun 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
1977 Datsun 280 | 1996 Lotus Elise | |
Make | Datsun | Lotus |
Model | 280 | Elise |
Year Released | 1977 | 1996 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Roadster |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 2751 cc | 1796 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 125 HP | 116 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 197 Nm | 169 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.5:1 |
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 | 705 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 3730 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1150 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2310 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 71 L | 40 L |