1980 Lotus Esprit vs. 1974 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 1980 Lotus Esprit is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Datsun 260Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Datsun 260Z would be higher. At 2,565 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Datsun 260Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Lotus Esprit (208 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1974 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1974 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 106 kg more than 1974 Datsun 260Z. 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, 1980 Lotus Esprit (277 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1980 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Datsun 260Z. 1974 Datsun 260Z has automatic transmission and 1980 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1980 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Datsun 260Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Lotus Esprit | 1974 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Lotus | Datsun |
| Model | Esprit | 260Z |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2172 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 277 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 79 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1206 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 60 L |
