2009 Honda Element vs. 1976 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2009 Honda Element 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, 2009 Honda Element (166 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1976 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Honda Element should accelerate faster than 1976 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Datsun 280Z weights approximately 175 kg more than 2009 Honda Element.
Because 2009 Honda Element is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1976 Datsun 280Z. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Honda Element will offer significantly more control. 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 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Honda Element. (218 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1976 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Honda Element. 2009 Honda Element has automatic transmission and 1976 Datsun 280Z has manual transmission. 1976 Datsun 280Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Honda Element will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Honda Element | 1976 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Honda | Datsun |
| Model | Element | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2354 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 166 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96.9 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 16.3:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1129 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 60 L |
