2000 Smart ForTwo vs. 1976 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2000 Smart ForTwo is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Datsun 280Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Datsun 280Z would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Datsun 280Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Datsun 280Z (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 2000 Smart ForTwo. (74 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 2000 Smart ForTwo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Datsun 280Z weights approximately 380 kg more than 2000 Smart ForTwo. 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, 1976 Datsun 280Z (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Smart ForTwo. (110 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1976 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Smart ForTwo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Smart ForTwo | 1976 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Smart | Datsun |
| Model | ForTwo | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 698 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66.5 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 67 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | 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 | 820 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2510 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1820 mm | 2304 mm |
