Japan vs UK — 1976 vs 1982
| 280Z 2+2 | Esprit Turbo (Type 82) | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 170 hp | 210 hp |
| Torque | 174 lb-ft | 209 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,753 cc | 2,174 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 8.5 sec | 5.6 sec |
| Top Speed | 124 mph | 149 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 16.3 sec | 14.1 sec |
| Weight | 2,900 lbs | 2,707 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,900 mm | 2,438 mm |
| Length | 4,700 mm | 4,191 mm |
| Units Produced | 86,432 | 1,626 |
| Original MSRP | $7,499 | $32,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $42,000 | $65,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 6/10 |
The 1982 Lotus Esprit Turbo (Type 82) emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1976 Datsun 280Z 2+2 counters with 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 1976 Datsun 280Z 2+2 against the 1982 Lotus Esprit Turbo (Type 82) is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — Japan versus UK. The 1982 Lotus Esprit Turbo (Type 82) holds a clear advantage in raw power with 210 hp compared to 170 hp, a 40-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Datsun 280Z uses a Inline-6 SOHC displacing 2,753 cc, while the Lotus Esprit relies on a Inline-4 DOHC Turbo with 2,174 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1982 Lotus Esprit Turbo (Type 82) edges ahead at 5.6 seconds versus 8.5 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,626 units built, the 1982 Lotus Esprit Turbo (Type 82) is considerably scarcer than the Datsun 280Z's 86,432 examples.