1970 AMC Gremlin vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1978 Datsun 280Z is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 AMC Gremlin. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 AMC Gremlin would be higher. At 4,228 cc (6 cylinders), 1970 AMC Gremlin is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Datsun 280Z (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1970 AMC Gremlin. (110 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 1970 AMC Gremlin. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Datsun 280Z weights approximately 128 kg more than 1970 AMC Gremlin. 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, 1970 AMC Gremlin (265 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1970 AMC Gremlin will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 280Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 AMC Gremlin | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | AMC | Datsun |
| Model | Gremlin | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1970 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4228 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 99 mm | 79 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1176 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 60 L |
