Japan vs UK — 1979 vs 1983
| 280ZX Turbo | Tickford Capri Turbo | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 180 hp | 205 hp |
| Torque | 220 lb-ft | 223 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,753 cc | 2,792 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 7.4 sec | 6.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 130 mph | 137 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.6 sec | 14.8 sec |
| Weight | 2,888 lbs | 2,700 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,520 mm | 2,565 mm |
| Length | 4,525 mm | 4,369 mm |
| Units Produced | 446,392 | 100 |
| Original MSRP | $13,999 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $45,000 | $65,000 |
| Collectibility | 6/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 4/10 | 9/10 |
The 1983 Aston Martin Tickford Capri Turbo emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1979 Datsun 280ZX Turbo counters with better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
Putting the 1979 Datsun 280ZX Turbo against the 1983 Aston Martin Tickford Capri Turbo is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — Japan versus UK. The 1983 Aston Martin Tickford Capri Turbo holds a clear advantage in raw power with 205 hp compared to 180 hp, a 25-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Datsun 280ZX uses a Inline-6 SOHC Turbocharged displacing 2,753 cc, while the Aston Martin Tickford Capri relies on a Inline-4 Turbo with 2,792 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1983 Aston Martin Tickford Capri Turbo edges ahead at 6.5 seconds versus 7.4 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 100 units built, the 1983 Aston Martin Tickford Capri Turbo is considerably scarcer than the Datsun 280ZX's 446,392 examples. On the collector market, the 1983 Aston Martin Tickford Capri Turbo commands a significant premium over the 1979 Datsun 280ZX Turbo, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.