2012 Toyota Tacoma vs. 1975 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2012 Toyota Tacoma 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 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1975 Datsun 280Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Toyota Tacoma (160 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1975 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Toyota Tacoma should accelerate faster than 1975 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Toyota Tacoma weights approximately 130 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Toyota Tacoma (244 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2012 Toyota Tacoma will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Datsun 280Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Toyota Tacoma | 1975 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Toyota | Datsun |
| Model | Tacoma | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1975 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2694 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 244 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 79 L | 60 L |
