2004 Ariel Atom vs. 1977 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2004 Ariel Atom is newer by 27 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 41 more horse power than 2004 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 2004 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Datsun 280Z weights approximately 844 kg more than 2004 Ariel Atom. 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, 1977 Datsun 280Z (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1977 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ariel Atom. 1977 Datsun 280Z has automatic transmission and 2004 Ariel Atom has manual transmission. 2004 Ariel Atom will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1977 Datsun 280Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ariel Atom | 1977 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Ariel | Datsun |
| Model | Atom | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2304 mm |
