1984 Honda Civic vs. 1972 Datsun 240Z
To start off, 1984 Honda Civic is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Datsun 240Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Datsun 240Z would be higher. At 2,393 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Datsun 240Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Datsun 240Z (151 HP) has 50 more horse power than 1984 Honda Civic. (101 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Datsun 240Z should accelerate faster than 1984 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Datsun 240Z weights approximately 213 kg more than 1984 Honda Civic. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 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 1972 Datsun 240Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 Honda Civic, 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, 1972 Datsun 240Z (198 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Honda Civic. (130 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1972 Datsun 240Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Honda Civic. 1972 Datsun 240Z has automatic transmission and 1984 Honda Civic has manual transmission. 1984 Honda Civic will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 Datsun 240Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Honda Civic | 1972 Datsun 240Z | |
| Make | Honda | Datsun |
| Model | Civic | 240Z |
| Year Released | 1984 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1488 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 151 HP |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.5 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 182 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 855 kg | 1068 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2300 mm |
