2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 23 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, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (155 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 367 kg more than 1978 Datsun 280Z. 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, 1978 Datsun 280Z (221 Nm) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (171 Nm). This means 1978 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Mazda | Datsun |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.1 mm | 79 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1671 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2304 mm |
