1967 Austin-Healey Sprite vs. 1983 Datsun 280
To start off, 1983 Datsun 280 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 Datsun 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Datsun 280 (180 HP) has 116 more horse power than 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite. (64 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1983 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Datsun 280 weights approximately 716 kg more than 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite. 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, 1983 Datsun 280 (275 Nm) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite. (98 Nm). This means 1983 Datsun 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite | 1983 Datsun 280 | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Datsun |
| Model | Sprite | 280 |
| Year Released | 1967 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1275 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 180 HP |
| Torque | 98 Nm | 275 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 7.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 714 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3490 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1350 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2330 mm |
