1948 Fiat 500 vs. 1975 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1975 Datsun 280Z is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1948 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1948 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1975 Datsun 280Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Datsun 280Z (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 1948 Fiat 500. (16 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1975 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 1948 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Datsun 280Z weights approximately 410 kg more than 1948 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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. 1975 Datsun 280Z has automatic transmission and 1948 Fiat 500 has manual transmission. 1948 Fiat 500 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1975 Datsun 280Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1948 Fiat 500 | 1975 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Fiat | Datsun |
| Model | 500 | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1948 | 1975 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 569 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 16 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 52 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 67 mm | 79 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3220 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1280 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2304 mm |
