1979 Datsun 280 vs. 2005 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 26 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, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 118 kg more than 1979 Datsun 280. 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, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Datsun 280 | 2005 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | Datsun | Mazda |
Model | 280 | RX-8 |
Year Released | 1979 | 2005 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2751 cc | 2614 cc |
Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 140 HP | 189 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 202 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1390 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2710 mm |