1999 Mazda B2500 vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1999 Mazda B2500 is newer by 21 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 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Datsun 280Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Datsun 280Z (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1999 Mazda B2500. (108 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 1999 Mazda B2500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mazda B2500 weights approximately 436 kg more than 1978 Datsun 280Z.
Because 1999 Mazda B2500 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Datsun 280Z. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Mazda B2500 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1999 Mazda B2500 (266 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1999 Mazda B2500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 280Z. 1978 Datsun 280Z has automatic transmission and 1999 Mazda B2500 has manual transmission. 1999 Mazda B2500 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Datsun 280Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mazda B2500 | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Mazda | Datsun |
| Model | B2500 | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2499 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 266 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2990 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 60 L |
