2009 Honda Civic vs. 1976 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2009 Honda Civic is newer by 33 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 51 more horse power than 2009 Honda Civic. (99 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 2009 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Honda Civic weights approximately 261 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, 2009 Honda Civic, 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 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Honda Civic. (220 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1976 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Honda Civic | 1976 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Honda | Datsun |
| Model | Civic | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1686 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1461 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |
