1979 Datsun 280 vs. 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Datsun 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Datsun 280 would be higher. At 2,751 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Datsun 280 (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (138 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun 280 weights approximately 247 kg more than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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, 1979 Datsun 280 (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Datsun 280 | 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Datsun | Mazda |
Model | 280 | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 1979 | 1998 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2751 cc | 1839 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 140 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 202 Nm | 162 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1025 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 3960 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2270 mm |