1990 Ford Probe vs. 1975 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1990 Ford Probe is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Datsun 280Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Datsun 280Z would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1975 Datsun 280Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Datsun 280Z (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1990 Ford Probe. (108 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1975 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 1990 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Ford Probe weights approximately 50 kg more than 1975 Datsun 280Z.
Because 1975 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 1975 Datsun 280Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Ford Probe, 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, 1975 Datsun 280Z (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Ford Probe. (179 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1975 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Ford Probe. 1975 Datsun 280Z has automatic transmission and 1990 Ford Probe has manual transmission. 1990 Ford Probe will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1975 Datsun 280Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Ford Probe | 1975 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Ford | Datsun |
| Model | Probe | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1975 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2184 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 179 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 79 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2304 mm |
