2003 Mazda Roadster vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2003 Mazda Roadster is newer by 25 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 2 more horse power than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (148 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda Roadster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Datsun 280Z weights approximately 224 kg more than 2003 Mazda Roadster. 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 @ 4400 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (167 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1978 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mazda Roadster | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
Make | Mazda | Datsun |
Model | Roadster | 280Z |
Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1838 cc | 2753 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 150 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 167 Nm | 221 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 86.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 79 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.3:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1304 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4399 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1631 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2304 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 60 L |