1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1975 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 24 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 38 more horse power than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1975 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Datsun 280Z weights approximately 279 kg more than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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, 1975 Datsun 280Z (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1975 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1975 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Mazda | Datsun |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1975 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 112 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |
