1972 Buick GS vs. 1976 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1976 Datsun 280Z is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Buick GS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Buick GS would be higher. At 5,723 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Buick GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Buick GS (190 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1976 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Buick GS should accelerate faster than 1976 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Buick GS weights approximately 430 kg more than 1976 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, 1972 Buick GS (394 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 173 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1972 Buick GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Datsun 280Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Buick GS | 1976 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Buick | Datsun |
| Model | GS | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5723 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 394 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5180 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2304 mm |
