2009 Ford Fiesta vs. 1977 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2009 Ford Fiesta 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 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Datsun 280Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Datsun 280Z (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2009 Ford Fiesta. (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Datsun 280Z weights approximately 334 kg more than 2009 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 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 1977 Datsun 280Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1977 Datsun 280Z (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Fiesta. (152 Nm @ 4050 RPM). This means 1977 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Fiesta | 1977 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Ford | Datsun |
| Model | Fiesta | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1977 |
| 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 | 118 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4050 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 60 L |
