1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass vs. 1977 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1977 Datsun 280Z is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 3,344 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass (160 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1977 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass should accelerate faster than 1977 Datsun 280Z.
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, 1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass (251 Nm) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm). This means 1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Datsun 280Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass | 1977 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Oldsmobile | Datsun |
| Model | Cutlass | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3344 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2304 mm |
