1957 Citroen 15 vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1978 Datsun 280Z is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Citroen 15. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Citroen 15 would be higher. At 2,866 cc (6 cylinders), 1957 Citroen 15 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Datsun 280Z (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1957 Citroen 15. (76 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 1957 Citroen 15. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1957 Citroen 15 weights approximately 21 kg more than 1978 Datsun 280Z.
Because 1978 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 1978 Datsun 280Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1957 Citroen 15, 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, 1978 Datsun 280Z (221 Nm) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 Citroen 15. (187 Nm). This means 1978 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 Citroen 15. 1978 Datsun 280Z has automatic transmission and 1957 Citroen 15 has manual transmission. 1957 Citroen 15 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Datsun 280Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 Citroen 15 | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Citroen | Datsun |
| Model | 15 | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1957 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2866 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 6.2:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1325 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3100 mm | 2304 mm |
