1968 Triumph Spitfire vs. 1976 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1976 Datsun 280Z is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Triumph Spitfire. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Triumph Spitfire 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 75 more horse power than 1968 Triumph Spitfire. (75 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 1968 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Datsun 280Z weights approximately 450 kg more than 1968 Triumph Spitfire. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Datsun 280Z is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1976 Datsun 280Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1968 Triumph Spitfire, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Triumph Spitfire. (104 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1976 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Triumph Spitfire | 1976 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Triumph | Datsun |
| Model | Spitfire | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1296 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.7 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 750 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3740 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 60 L |
