2005 Mazda Etude vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2005 Mazda Etude 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, 1978 Datsun 280Z (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2005 Mazda Etude. (120 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda Etude. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Datsun 280Z weights approximately 211 kg more than 2005 Mazda Etude. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Mazda Etude, 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 53 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda Etude. (168 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda Etude. 1978 Datsun 280Z has automatic transmission and 2005 Mazda Etude has manual transmission. 2005 Mazda Etude 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 Mazda Etude | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Mazda | Datsun |
| Model | Etude | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 2753 cc |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1093 kg | 1304 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
