1978 Datsun 280Z vs. 2000 Mazda Laputa
To start off, 2000 Mazda Laputa is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Datsun 280Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Datsun 280Z would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Datsun 280Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Datsun 280Z (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 2000 Mazda Laputa. (52 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 2000 Mazda Laputa. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Datsun 280Z weights approximately 554 kg more than 2000 Mazda Laputa. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Datsun 280Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 Mazda Laputa, 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, 1978 Datsun 280Z (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Mazda Laputa. (63 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1978 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Mazda Laputa.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Datsun 280Z | 2000 Mazda Laputa | |
| Make | Datsun | Mazda |
| Model | 280Z | Laputa |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2753 cc | 658 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 63 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 68 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 60.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1304 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4399 mm | 3400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1631 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2304 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 30 L |
