2005 Lotus Elise vs. 1977 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 2005 Lotus Elise is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Datsun 260Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Datsun 260Z would be higher. At 2,565 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Datsun 260Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lotus Elise (189 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1977 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1977 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Datsun 260Z weights approximately 250 kg more than 2005 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, 1977 Datsun 260Z (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Lotus Elise. (186 Nm @ 6800 RPM). This means 1977 Datsun 260Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Lotus Elise. 1977 Datsun 260Z has automatic transmission and 2005 Lotus Elise has manual transmission. 2005 Lotus Elise will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1977 Datsun 260Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Lotus Elise | 1977 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Lotus | Datsun |
| Model | Elise | 260Z |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 79 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 241 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.2 seconds | 8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 60 L |
