2008 Ford Explorer vs. 1975 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2008 Ford Explorer is newer by 33 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 4,013 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1975 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1975 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Explorer weights approximately 877 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, 2008 Ford Explorer (344 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Datsun 280Z. 2008 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1975 Datsun 280Z has manual transmission. 1975 Datsun 280Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Explorer | 1975 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Ford | Datsun |
| Model | Explorer | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1975 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4013 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2077 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5350 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3320 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 60 L |
