2010 Mazda 6 vs. 1975 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2010 Mazda 6 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Datsun 280Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Datsun 280Z would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1975 Datsun 280Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mazda 6 (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1975 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1975 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mazda 6 weights approximately 301 kg more than 1975 Datsun 280Z. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 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 1975 Datsun 280Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 Mazda 6, 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, 2010 Mazda 6 (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2010 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Datsun 280Z. 2010 Mazda 6 has automatic transmission and 1975 Datsun 280Z has manual transmission. 1975 Datsun 280Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Mazda 6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2010 Mazda 6 | 1975 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Mazda | Datsun |
| Model | 6 | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2010 | 1975 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2500 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1501 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1839 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2789 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
