2005 Honda Civic vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2005 Honda Civic is newer by 27 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, 2005 Honda Civic (197 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Datsun 280Z weights approximately 44 kg more than 2005 Honda Civic.
Because 1978 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 1978 Datsun 280Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Honda Civic, 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, 1978 Datsun 280Z (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Honda Civic. (192 Nm @ 5900 RPM). This means 1978 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Honda Civic. 1978 Datsun 280Z has automatic transmission and 2005 Honda Civic has manual transmission. 2005 Honda Civic will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Datsun 280Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Honda Civic | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Honda | Datsun |
| Model | Civic | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 192 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5900 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |
