2009 Ford Explorer vs. 1977 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Datsun 280Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Datsun 280Z would be higher. At 4,606 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Explorer (292 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1977 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1977 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Datsun 280Z weights approximately 338 kg more than 2009 Ford Explorer.
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, 2009 Ford Explorer (427 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 206 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Datsun 280Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Explorer | 1977 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Ford | Datsun |
| Model | Explorer | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1977 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4606 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 292 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 60 L |
