2005 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1975 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 30 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 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1975 Datsun 280Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1975 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1975 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 52 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.
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, 1975 Datsun 280Z (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1975 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda RX-8 | 1975 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Mazda | Datsun |
| Model | RX-8 | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1975 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1356 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 60 L |
