Japan vs Japan — 1979 vs 1981
| 280ZX Turbo | Soarer 2800GT | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 180 hp | 170 hp |
| Torque | 220 lb-ft | — |
| Engine Size | 2,753 cc | 2,759 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 7.4 sec | 8.7 sec |
| Top Speed | 130 mph | 127 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.6 sec | — |
| Weight | 2,888 lbs | — |
| Wheelbase | 2,520 mm | 2,660 mm |
| Length | 4,525 mm | 4,690 mm |
| Units Produced | 446,392 | — |
| Original MSRP | $13,999 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $45,000 | $30,000 |
| Collectibility | 6/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 4/10 | 6/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1979 Datsun 280ZX Turbo brings quicker acceleration, higher top speed to the table, and the 1981 Toyota Soarer 2800GT answers with stronger collectibility. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
In the world of Grand Tourer cars, few comparisons generate as much discussion as the 1979 Datsun 280ZX Turbo versus the 1981 Toyota Soarer 2800GT. Both hail from Malaise era and represent the pinnacle of their respective manufacturers' ambitions. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1979 Datsun 280ZX Turbo producing 180 hp and the 1981 Toyota Soarer 2800GT delivering 170 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Datsun 280ZX uses a Inline-6 SOHC Turbocharged displacing 2,753 cc, while the Toyota Soarer relies on a Inline-6 DOHC with 2,759 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1979 Datsun 280ZX Turbo edges ahead at 7.4 seconds versus 8.7 seconds. Both trade at comparable values on the collector market, making the choice between them largely one of personal preference.