1958 Austin-Healey 100 vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1978 Datsun 280Z is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Austin-Healey 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Austin-Healey 100 would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Datsun 280Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Datsun 280Z (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1958 Austin-Healey 100. (101 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 1958 Austin-Healey 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Datsun 280Z weights approximately 184 kg more than 1958 Austin-Healey 100. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1978 Datsun 280Z (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Austin-Healey 100. (142 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1978 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Austin-Healey 100.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Austin-Healey 100 | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Datsun |
| Model | 100 | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1958 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2639 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.4 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 79 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 60 L |
