1979 Datsun 280 vs. 1990 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1990 Lotus Esprit is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Datsun 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Datsun 280 would be higher. At 2,751 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Lotus Esprit (172 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun 280 weights approximately 97 kg more than 1990 Lotus Esprit.
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, 1990 Lotus Esprit (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1990 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Datsun 280 | 1990 Lotus Esprit | |
Make | Datsun | Lotus |
Model | 280 | Esprit |
Year Released | 1979 | 1990 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 2751 cc | 2174 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 140 HP | 172 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 202 Nm | 221 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1175 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4350 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1160 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2440 mm |