1984 Ford Escort vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1984 Ford Escort is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Datsun 280Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Datsun 280Z would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Datsun 280Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Datsun 280Z (150 HP) has 101 more horse power than 1984 Ford Escort. (49 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 1984 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Datsun 280Z weights approximately 514 kg more than 1984 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Datsun 280Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 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, 1978 Datsun 280Z (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Ford Escort. (85 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1978 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Ford Escort. 1978 Datsun 280Z has automatic transmission and 1984 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1984 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Datsun 280Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Ford Escort | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Ford | Datsun |
| Model | Escort | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1984 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1117 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 150 HP |
| Torque | 85 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 65 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
