1961 Maserati 3500 vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1978 Datsun 280Z is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Maserati 3500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Maserati 3500 would be higher. At 3,485 cc (6 cylinders), 1961 Maserati 3500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Maserati 3500 (232 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1961 Maserati 3500 should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Maserati 3500 weights approximately 26 kg more than 1978 Datsun 280Z. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1961 Maserati 3500 (320 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1961 Maserati 3500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 280Z. 1978 Datsun 280Z has automatic transmission and 1961 Maserati 3500 has manual transmission. 1961 Maserati 3500 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:
1961 Maserati 3500 | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
Make | Maserati | Datsun |
Model | 3500 | 280Z |
Year Released | 1961 | 1978 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3485 cc | 2753 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 232 HP | 150 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 221 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1304 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4399 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1631 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2304 mm |