1979 Datsun 280 vs. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 30 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, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun 280 weights approximately 312 kg more than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Datsun | Mazda |
| Model | 280 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 8.4:1 |
| 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 | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2340 mm |
