2008 Mazda 5 vs. 1976 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2008 Mazda 5 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 9 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 5. (141 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 5 weights approximately 410 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 Mazda 5, 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, 2008 Mazda 5 (360 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Datsun 280Z. 1976 Datsun 280Z has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda 5 has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda 5 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Datsun 280Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 5 | 1976 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Mazda | Datsun |
| Model | 5 | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Minivan | 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 | 141 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 360 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 16.7:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 60 L |
