1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 2009 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2009 Lotus Elise is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Datsun Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Datsun Laurel would be higher. At 2,393 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lotus Elise (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun Laurel weights approximately 306 kg more than 2009 Lotus Elise.
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 Laurel (175 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Lotus Elise. (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun Laurel will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun Laurel | 2009 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Datsun | Lotus |
| Model | Laurel | Elise |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.7 mm | 89.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 882 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 32 L |
