2006 Mazda 6 vs. 1975 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2006 Mazda 6 is newer by 31 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, 1975 Datsun 280Z (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 6. (134 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1975 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda 6 weights approximately 236 kg more than 1975 Datsun 280Z.
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, 2006 Mazda 6, 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, 2006 Mazda 6 (310 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Datsun 280Z. 1975 Datsun 280Z has automatic transmission and 2006 Mazda 6 has manual transmission. 2006 Mazda 6 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1975 Datsun 280Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 6 | 1975 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Mazda | Datsun |
| Model | 6 | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1975 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | 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 | 134 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.3:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 60 L |
