1979 Datsun 280 vs. 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 21 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 41 more horse power than 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (99 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 513 kg more than 1979 Datsun 280.
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, 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata (230 Nm) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm). This means 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Datsun | Mazda |
| Model | 280 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2000 |
| 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 | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
| 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 | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2270 mm |
