1956 Citroen 2CV vs. 1976 Datsun 280Z

To start off, 1976 Datsun 280Z is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Citroen 2CV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 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 140 more horse power than 1956 Citroen 2CV. (10 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 1956 Citroen 2CV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Datsun 280Z weights approximately 705 kg more than 1956 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, 1956 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 199 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Citroen 2CV. (22 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1976 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Citroen 2CV.

Compare all specifications:

1956 Citroen 2CV 1976 Datsun 280Z
Make Citroen Datsun
Model 2CV 280Z
Year Released 1956 1976
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 374 cc 2753 cc
Engine Cylinders 2 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type boxer in-line
Horse Power 10 HP 150 HP
Engine RPM 3500 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 22 Nm 221 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 4400 RPM
Engine Bore Size 66 mm 86.1 mm
Engine Stroke Size 62 mm 79 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 495 kg 1200 kg
Vehicle Length 3790 mm 4399 mm
Vehicle Width 1490 mm 1631 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 2304 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 19 L 60 L