2012 Nissan Altima vs. 1975 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2012 Nissan Altima is newer by 37 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Altima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1975 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1975 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Altima weights approximately 312 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, 2012 Nissan Altima, 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, 2012 Nissan Altima (349 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Datsun 280Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Nissan Altima | 1975 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Nissan | Datsun |
| Model | Altima | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1975 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 270 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 349 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1512 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4595 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1796 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2675 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 60 L |
