1979 Datsun 280 vs. 2012 Lotus Evora
To start off, 2012 Lotus Evora is newer by 33 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Lotus Evora is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lotus Evora (276 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lotus Evora should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lotus Evora weights approximately 110 kg more than 1979 Datsun 280. 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, 2012 Lotus Evora (349 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Lotus Evora will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 2012 Lotus Evora | |
| Make | Datsun | Lotus |
| Model | 280 | Evora |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 276 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1382 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4341 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1849 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1222 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2576 mm |
