1979 Datsun 280 vs. 1974 Lotus Eclat
To start off, 1979 Datsun 280 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Lotus Eclat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Lotus Eclat would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Lotus Eclat (160 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Lotus Eclat should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun 280 weights approximately 150 kg more than 1974 Lotus Eclat.
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 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lotus Eclat. (190 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lotus Eclat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 1974 Lotus Eclat | |
| Make | Datsun | Lotus |
| Model | 280 | Eclat |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2753 cc | 1971 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 95.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 69.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 67 L |
