1974 Datsun 260Z vs. 1979 Datsun 280
To start off, 1979 Datsun 280 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Datsun 260Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Datsun 260Z would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Datsun 260Z (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun 280 weights approximately 5 kg more than 1974 Datsun 260Z.
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, 1974 Datsun 260Z (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1974 Datsun 260Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Datsun 260Z | 1979 Datsun 280 | |
| Make | Datsun | Datsun |
| Model | 260Z | 280 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2565 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 213 Nm | 202 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2581 mm | 2330 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 80 L |
