2009 Lotus Elise vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2009 Lotus Elise is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Datsun 280Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Datsun 280Z would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Datsun 280Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lotus Elise (186 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Datsun 280Z weights approximately 415 kg more than 2009 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, 1978 Datsun 280Z (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Lotus Elise. (133 Nm @ 6800 RPM). This means 1978 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Lotus Elise | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
Make | Lotus | Datsun |
Model | Elise | 280Z |
Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2753 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 186 HP | 150 HP |
Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 133 Nm | 221 Nm |
Torque RPM | 6800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 86.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 79 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 8.3:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 785 kg | 1200 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3800 mm | 4399 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1631 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2304 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 60 L |