1989 Lotus Esprit vs. 1975 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1989 Lotus Esprit is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Datsun 280Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Datsun 280Z would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1975 Datsun 280Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lotus Esprit (216 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1975 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1975 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Datsun 280Z weights approximately 52 kg more than 1989 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, 1989 Lotus Esprit (298 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1989 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Datsun 280Z. 1975 Datsun 280Z has automatic transmission and 1989 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1989 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1975 Datsun 280Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Lotus Esprit | 1975 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Lotus | Datsun |
| Model | Esprit | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1975 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 216 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1148 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2304 mm |
