2008 Ford Focus vs. 1976 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2008 Ford Focus is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Datsun 280Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Datsun 280Z would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Datsun 280Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Datsun 280Z (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2008 Ford Focus. (90 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Focus weights approximately 58 kg more than 1976 Datsun 280Z.
Because 1976 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 1976 Datsun 280Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Ford Focus, 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, 1976 Datsun 280Z (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Focus. (215 Nm @ 1850 RPM). This means 1976 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Focus | 1976 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Ford | Datsun |
| Model | Focus | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1560 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1850 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.3:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1362 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 60 L |
