1948 Citroen 2CV vs. 1976 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1976 Datsun 280Z is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1948 Citroen 2CV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1948 Citroen 2CV would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Datsun 280Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Datsun 280Z (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1948 Citroen 2CV. (9 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 1948 Citroen 2CV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Datsun 280Z weights approximately 622 kg more than 1948 Citroen 2CV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Datsun 280Z is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1976 Datsun 280Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1948 Citroen 2CV, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1976 Datsun 280Z (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 198 more torque (in Nm) than 1948 Citroen 2CV. (23 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1976 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1948 Citroen 2CV. 1976 Datsun 280Z has automatic transmission and 1948 Citroen 2CV has manual transmission. 1948 Citroen 2CV will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Datsun 280Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1948 Citroen 2CV | 1976 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Citroen | Datsun |
| Model | 2CV | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1948 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 375 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 9 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 23 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 62 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 62 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 6.2:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 682 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3780 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L | 60 L |
