1959 Berkeley QB vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1978 Datsun 280Z is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Berkeley QB. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Berkeley QB would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Datsun 280Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Datsun 280Z (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1959 Berkeley QB. (39 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 1959 Berkeley QB. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Datsun 280Z weights approximately 923 kg more than 1959 Berkeley QB. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1959 Berkeley QB, 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 @ 4400 RPM) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Berkeley QB. (58 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Berkeley QB.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Berkeley QB | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Berkeley | Datsun |
| Model | QB | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 691 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 39 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 58 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.5:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 381 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1990 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 25 L | 60 L |
