2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1977 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 23 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 51 more horse power than 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (99 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 481 kg more than 1977 Datsun 280Z.
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, 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata (230 Nm) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm). This means 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Datsun 280Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1977 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Mazda | Datsun |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2304 mm |
