1982 Ford Escort vs. 1975 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1982 Ford Escort is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Datsun 280Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Datsun 280Z would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1975 Datsun 280Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Datsun 280Z (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1982 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1975 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Datsun 280Z weights approximately 250 kg more than 1982 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 Datsun 280Z 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 1975 Datsun 280Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 Ford Escort, 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, 1975 Datsun 280Z (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Ford Escort. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1975 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Ford Escort | 1975 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Ford | Datsun |
| Model | Escort | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1982 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.7 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 79 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2304 mm |
