1996 Acura NSX vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1996 Acura NSX is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Datsun 280Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Datsun 280Z would be higher. At 2,977 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Acura NSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Acura NSX (271 HP @ 7300 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Acura NSX should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Acura NSX weights approximately 170 kg more than 1978 Datsun 280Z. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1996 Acura NSX (284 Nm @ 5400 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1996 Acura NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 280Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Acura NSX | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Acura | Datsun |
| Model | NSX | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2977 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 271 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 284 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2304 mm |
