2008 Ford Fiesta vs. 1975 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2008 Ford Fiesta 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 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1975 Datsun 280Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Fiesta (263 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1975 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Fiesta should accelerate faster than 1975 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Datsun 280Z weights approximately 227 kg more than 2008 Ford Fiesta.
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, 2008 Ford Fiesta, 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, 1975 Datsun 280Z (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Fiesta. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1975 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Fiesta | 1975 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Ford | Datsun |
| Model | Fiesta | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1975 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 263 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1077 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 60 L |
