1976 Ford Taunus vs. 1977 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1977 Datsun 280Z is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Ford Taunus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Ford Taunus 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 61 more horse power than 1976 Ford Taunus. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Taunus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Datsun 280Z weights approximately 189 kg more than 1976 Ford Taunus. 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, 1977 Datsun 280Z (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Taunus. (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1977 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Taunus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Ford Taunus | 1977 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Ford | Datsun |
| Model | Taunus | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2304 mm |
