1986 AC Ace vs. 1976 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1986 AC Ace is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Datsun 280Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Datsun 280Z would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Datsun 280Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 AC Ace (201 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1976 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 AC Ace should accelerate faster than 1976 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Datsun 280Z weights approximately 180 kg more than 1986 AC Ace.
Because 1986 AC Ace is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1976 Datsun 280Z. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 AC Ace will offer significantly more control. 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, 1986 AC Ace (276 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1986 AC Ace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Datsun 280Z. 1976 Datsun 280Z has automatic transmission and 1986 AC Ace has manual transmission. 1986 AC Ace will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Datsun 280Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 AC Ace | 1976 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | AC | Datsun |
| Model | Ace | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 276 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 60 L |
