1983 Ford Orion vs. 2008 Nissan 350Z
To start off, 2008 Nissan 350Z is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Orion. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Orion would be higher. At 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan 350Z (306 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 237 more horse power than 1983 Ford Orion. (69 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Orion. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 664 kg more than 1983 Ford Orion. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Nissan 350Z 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 2008 Nissan 350Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Ford Orion, 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, 2008 Nissan 350Z (363 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 263 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Orion. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Orion.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Ford Orion | 2008 Nissan 350Z | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Orion | 350Z |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 3496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 306 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 363 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 64.5 mm | 81.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.6:1 |
| Top Speed | 157 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 876 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2660 mm |
