1977 Datsun 280 vs. 2012 Mazda 5
To start off, 2012 Mazda 5 is newer by 35 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 2,751 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Datsun 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 5 (157 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1977 Datsun 280. (125 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 5 should accelerate faster than 1977 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 5 weights approximately 193 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.
Because 1977 Datsun 280 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 1977 Datsun 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 5, 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, 2012 Mazda 5 (221 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Datsun 280. (197 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Datsun 280. 2012 Mazda 5 has automatic transmission and 1977 Datsun 280 has manual transmission. 1977 Datsun 280 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mazda 5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Datsun 280 | 2012 Mazda 5 | |
| Make | Datsun | Mazda |
| Model | 280 | 5 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 197 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1568 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4585 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1615 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2751 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 71 L | 60 L |
