1986 Ford Escort vs. 1977 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1986 Ford Escort is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Datsun 280Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Datsun 280Z would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Datsun 280Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Datsun 280Z (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Datsun 280Z weights approximately 290 kg more than 1986 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 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 1977 Datsun 280Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 1977 Datsun 280Z (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1977 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 1977 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Ford | Datsun |
| Model | Escort | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1751 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.5:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 60 L |
