1996 Ford Ka vs. 1977 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1996 Ford Ka is newer by 19 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 92 more horse power than 1996 Ford Ka. (58 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Datsun 280Z weights approximately 292 kg more than 1996 Ford Ka. 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, 1996 Ford Ka, 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 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1977 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Ka | 1977 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Ford | Datsun |
| Model | Ka | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 908 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 60 L |
