2012 Chevrolet Spark vs. 1976 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Spark is newer by 36 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 83 more horse power than 2012 Chevrolet Spark. (67 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 2012 Chevrolet Spark. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Datsun 280Z weights approximately 509 kg more than 2012 Chevrolet Spark. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2012 Chevrolet Spark, 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 134 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Spark. (87 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1976 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Spark.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Chevrolet Spark | 1976 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Datsun |
| Model | Spark | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 995 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 69 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 795 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3500 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 60 L |
