Japan vs Japan — 1976 vs 1984
| 280Z 2+2 | 200SX Turbo (S12) | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 170 hp | 135 hp |
| Torque | 174 lb-ft | 148 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,753 cc | 1,809 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 8.5 sec | 8.2 sec |
| Top Speed | 124 mph | 124 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 16.3 sec | 16.0 sec |
| Weight | 2,900 lbs | — |
| Wheelbase | 2,900 mm | 2,425 mm |
| Length | 4,700 mm | 4,400 mm |
| Units Produced | 86,432 | — |
| Original MSRP | $7,499 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $42,000 | — |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 7/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1976 Datsun 280Z 2+2 brings more power, stronger collectibility to the table, and the 1984 Nissan 200SX Turbo (S12) answers with quicker acceleration. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
In the world of Sports Car cars, few comparisons generate as much discussion as the 1976 Datsun 280Z 2+2 versus the 1984 Nissan 200SX Turbo (S12). Both hail from Malaise era and represent the pinnacle of their respective manufacturers' ambitions. The 1976 Datsun 280Z 2+2 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 170 hp compared to 135 hp, a 35-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Datsun 280Z uses a Inline-6 SOHC displacing 2,753 cc, while the Nissan 200SX relies on a Inline-4 SOHC 8V Turbocharged with 1,809 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1984 Nissan 200SX Turbo (S12) edges ahead at 8.2 seconds versus 8.5 seconds. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1976 Datsun 280Z 2+2 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.