1986 Lotus Esprit vs. 1976 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 1986 Lotus Esprit is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Datsun 260Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Datsun 260Z would be higher. At 2,565 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Datsun 260Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Datsun 260Z (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1986 Lotus Esprit. (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 1986 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Datsun 260Z weights approximately 33 kg more than 1986 Lotus Esprit. 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, 1986 Lotus Esprit (221 Nm @ 5250 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1986 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Datsun 260Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Lotus Esprit | 1976 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Lotus | Datsun |
| Model | Esprit | 260Z |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1976 |
| 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 | 160 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5250 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1067 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 60 L |
