1977 Datsun 280Z vs. 2004 Honda Civic
To start off, 2004 Honda Civic is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Datsun 280Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Datsun 280Z 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 42 more horse power than 2004 Honda Civic. (108 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1977 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 2004 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Datsun 280Z weights approximately 360 kg more than 2004 Honda Civic. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 Datsun 280Z 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 280Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Honda Civic, 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, 1977 Datsun 280Z (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Honda Civic. (144 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1977 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Honda Civic. 2004 Honda Civic has automatic transmission and 1977 Datsun 280Z has manual transmission. 1977 Datsun 280Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Honda Civic will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Datsun 280Z | 2004 Honda Civic | |
| Make | Datsun | Honda |
| Model | 280Z | Civic |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2753 cc | 1668 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 75.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4399 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1631 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2304 mm | 2540 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 50 L |
