2012 Mini Cooper Countryman vs. 1976 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2012 Mini Cooper Countryman 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, 2012 Mini Cooper Countryman (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1976 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mini Cooper Countryman should accelerate faster than 1976 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mini Cooper Countryman weights approximately 151 kg more than 1976 Datsun 280Z. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Mini Cooper Countryman is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1976 Datsun 280Z. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mini Cooper Countryman 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, 2012 Mini Cooper Countryman (240 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2012 Mini Cooper Countryman will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Datsun 280Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Mini Cooper Countryman | 1976 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Mini | Datsun |
| Model | Cooper Countryman | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1600 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 181 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | AWD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4110 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1788 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2596 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 60 L |
