2004 Ford Mondeo vs. 1975 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2004 Ford Mondeo is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Datsun 280Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Datsun 280Z would be higher. At 2,983 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Mondeo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Mondeo (224 HP @ 6150 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1975 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Mondeo should accelerate faster than 1975 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Mondeo weights approximately 235 kg more than 1975 Datsun 280Z. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 Datsun 280Z is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1975 Datsun 280Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Ford Mondeo, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1975 Datsun 280Z (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Mondeo. (180 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 1975 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Mondeo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Mondeo | 1975 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Ford | Datsun |
| Model | Mondeo | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1975 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2983 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 224 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6150 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1539 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 60 L |
