1961 AC Ace vs. 1976 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1976 Datsun 280Z is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 AC Ace. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 AC Ace would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Datsun 280Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Datsun 280Z (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1961 AC Ace. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 1961 AC Ace. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Datsun 280Z weights approximately 491 kg more than 1961 AC Ace. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1976 Datsun 280Z (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 AC Ace. (180 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1976 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 AC Ace.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 AC Ace | 1976 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | AC | Datsun |
| Model | Ace | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2553 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.8:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 813 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 60 L |
