1977 Datsun 280 vs. 1997 Honda NSX

To start off, 1997 Honda NSX is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Datsun 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Datsun 280 would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Honda NSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Honda NSX (290 HP @ 7100 RPM) has 165 more horse power than 1977 Datsun 280. (125 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Honda NSX should accelerate faster than 1977 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Honda NSX weights approximately 123 kg more than 1977 Datsun 280. 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, 1997 Honda NSX (304 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Datsun 280. (197 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1997 Honda NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Datsun 280.

Compare all specifications:

1977 Datsun 280 1997 Honda NSX
Make Datsun Honda
Model 280 NSX
Year Released 1977 1997
Body Type Hatchback Coupe
Engine Position Front Middle
Engine Size 2751 cc 3179 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Horse Power 125 HP 290 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 7100 RPM
Torque 197 Nm 304 Nm
Torque RPM 3200 RPM 5500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 86 mm 93 mm
Engine Stroke Size 79 mm 78 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 8.6:1 10.2:1
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1375 kg 1498 kg
Vehicle Length 4820 mm 4430 mm
Vehicle Width 1720 mm 1820 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1180 mm
Wheelbase Size 2700 mm 2540 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 71 L 70 L