1973 Datsun 240Z vs. 1977 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1977 Datsun 280Z is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Datsun 240Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Datsun 240Z would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Datsun 280Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Datsun 240Z (151 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1977 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Datsun 240Z should accelerate faster than 1977 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Datsun 280Z weights approximately 132 kg more than 1973 Datsun 240Z.
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 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Datsun 240Z. (198 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1977 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Datsun 240Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Datsun 240Z | 1977 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Datsun | Datsun |
| Model | 240Z | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 198 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.7 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1068 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2304 mm |
