1979 Datsun 280 vs. 1958 Lotus Elite
To start off, 1979 Datsun 280 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Datsun 280 (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1958 Lotus Elite. (71 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 1958 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun 280 weights approximately 625 kg more than 1958 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, 1979 Datsun 280 (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Lotus Elite. (105 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 1958 Lotus Elite | |
| Make | Datsun | Lotus |
| Model | 280 | Elite |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1958 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2753 cc | 1216 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 105 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 66.7 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 3770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 29 L |
