2002 Lotus Esprit vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 2002 Lotus Esprit is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Datsun 260Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Datsun 260Z would be higher. At 3,504 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lotus Esprit (350 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 187 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 140 kg more than 1978 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, 2002 Lotus Esprit (400 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 187 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2002 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 260Z. 1978 Datsun 260Z has automatic transmission and 2002 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 2002 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Datsun 260Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Lotus Esprit | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Lotus | Datsun |
| Model | Esprit | 260Z |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3504 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 79 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2581 mm |
