2009 Honda Civic vs. 1977 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2009 Honda Civic 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 9 more horse power than 2009 Honda Civic. (141 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 2009 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Datsun 280Z weights approximately 175 kg more than 2009 Honda Civic. 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 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, 1977 Datsun 280Z (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Honda Civic. (174 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1977 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Honda Civic. 1977 Datsun 280Z has automatic transmission and 2009 Honda Civic has manual transmission. 2009 Honda Civic will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1977 Datsun 280Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Honda Civic | 1977 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Honda | Datsun |
| Model | Civic | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.3 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1129 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |
