1963 Ford Zodiac vs. 1977 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1977 Datsun 280Z is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Ford Zodiac. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Ford Zodiac would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Datsun 280Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Datsun 280Z (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1963 Ford Zodiac. (108 HP @ 4750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 1963 Ford Zodiac. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1963 Ford Zodiac weights approximately 70 kg more than 1977 Datsun 280Z.
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, 1977 Datsun 280Z (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 Ford Zodiac. (191 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1977 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 Ford Zodiac.
Compare all specifications:
| 1963 Ford Zodiac | 1977 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Ford | Datsun |
| Model | Zodiac | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1963 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2553 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 191 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 79 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4650 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 60 L |
