1987 Mitsubishi Debonair vs. 1976 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1987 Mitsubishi Debonair is newer by 11 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, 1976 Datsun 280Z (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1987 Mitsubishi Debonair. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 1987 Mitsubishi Debonair. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Mitsubishi Debonair weights approximately 200 kg more than 1976 Datsun 280Z.
Because 1976 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 1976 Datsun 280Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Mitsubishi Debonair, 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, 1976 Datsun 280Z (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Mitsubishi Debonair. (172 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1976 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Mitsubishi Debonair. 1987 Mitsubishi Debonair has automatic transmission and 1976 Datsun 280Z has manual transmission. 1976 Datsun 280Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1987 Mitsubishi Debonair will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Mitsubishi Debonair | 1976 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Datsun |
| Model | Debonair | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1631 mm |
