Japan vs Japan — 1976 vs 1975
| 280Z 2+2 | 280Z 280Z (S30) | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 170 hp | 170 hp |
| Torque | 174 lb-ft | 165 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,753 cc | 2,753 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 8.5 sec | 8.2 sec |
| Top Speed | 124 mph | 122 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 16.3 sec | 16.2 sec |
| Weight | 2,900 lbs | — |
| Wheelbase | 2,900 mm | 2,305 mm |
| Length | 4,700 mm | 4,292 mm |
| Units Produced | 86,432 | — |
| Original MSRP | $7,499 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $42,000 | — |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 4/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1976 Datsun 280Z 2+2 brings higher top speed, stronger collectibility to the table, and the 1975 Datsun 280Z 280Z (S30) answers with quicker acceleration. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
Few model names carry as much weight as the Datsun 280Z. The 1976 and 1975 iterations represent different chapters in this storied nameplate's history, each reflecting the priorities and technologies of its era. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1976 Datsun 280Z 2+2 producing 170 hp and the 1975 Datsun 280Z 280Z (S30) delivering 170 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Datsun 280Z uses a Inline-6 SOHC displacing 2,753 cc, while the Datsun 280Z relies on a Inline-6 SOHC 12V with 2,753 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1975 Datsun 280Z 280Z (S30) 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.