1980 Honda Ballade vs. 1973 Datsun 240Z
To start off, 1980 Honda Ballade is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Datsun 240Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Datsun 240Z would be higher. At 2,393 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Datsun 240Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Datsun 240Z (151 HP) has 84 more horse power than 1980 Honda Ballade. (67 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Datsun 240Z should accelerate faster than 1980 Honda Ballade. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Datsun 240Z weights approximately 282 kg more than 1980 Honda Ballade. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Datsun 240Z 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 1973 Datsun 240Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Honda Ballade, 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, 1973 Datsun 240Z (198 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Honda Ballade. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1973 Datsun 240Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Honda Ballade. 1973 Datsun 240Z has automatic transmission and 1980 Honda Ballade has manual transmission. 1980 Honda Ballade will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1973 Datsun 240Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Honda Ballade | 1973 Datsun 240Z | |
| Make | Honda | Datsun |
| Model | Ballade | 240Z |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1335 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 151 HP |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 72 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 786 kg | 1068 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2300 mm |
