1988 Honda Legend vs. 1977 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1988 Honda Legend is newer by 11 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, 1988 Honda Legend (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1977 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Honda Legend should accelerate faster than 1977 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Honda Legend weights approximately 220 kg more than 1977 Datsun 280Z. 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, 1988 Honda Legend, 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, 1988 Honda Legend (232 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1988 Honda Legend will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Datsun 280Z. 1977 Datsun 280Z has automatic transmission and 1988 Honda Legend has manual transmission. 1988 Honda Legend will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1977 Datsun 280Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Honda Legend | 1977 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Honda | Datsun |
| Model | Legend | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2675 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 232 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 79 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2304 mm |
