Japan vs United Kingdom — 1974 vs 1971
| 260Z 2+2 | Elan Sprint Fixed Head Coupe | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 162 hp | 126 hp |
| Torque | 160 lb-ft | 117 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,565 cc | 1,558 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 9.2 sec | 6.7 sec |
| Top Speed | 120 mph | 120 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.0 sec | 15.2 sec |
| Weight | 2,557 lbs | 1,519 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,605 mm | 2,134 mm |
| Length | 4,425 mm | 3,658 mm |
| Units Produced | 166,461 | 1,353 |
| Original MSRP | $5,499 | $4,795 |
| Value (Excellent) | $55,000 | $75,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 4/10 | 8/10 |
The 1971 Lotus Elan Sprint Fixed Head Coupe emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering quicker acceleration, lighter weight, greater rarity. The 1974 Datsun 260Z 2+2 counters with more power, better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
Putting the 1974 Datsun 260Z 2+2 against the 1971 Lotus Elan Sprint Fixed Head Coupe is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — Japan versus United Kingdom. The 1974 Datsun 260Z 2+2 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 162 hp compared to 126 hp, a 36-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Datsun 260Z uses a Inline-6 SOHC displacing 2,565 cc, while the Lotus Elan Sprint relies on a Inline-4 DOHC with 1,558 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1971 Lotus Elan Sprint Fixed Head Coupe edges ahead at 6.7 seconds versus 9.2 seconds. The Lotus Elan Sprint carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1038 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,353 units built, the 1971 Lotus Elan Sprint Fixed Head Coupe is considerably scarcer than the Datsun 260Z's 166,461 examples. On the collector market, the 1971 Lotus Elan Sprint Fixed Head Coupe commands a significant premium over the 1974 Datsun 260Z 2+2, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1971 Lotus Elan Sprint Fixed Head Coupe rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.