1977 Datsun 280Z vs. 1998 Toyota Corolla
To start off, 1998 Toyota Corolla is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Datsun 280Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Datsun 280Z would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Datsun 280Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Datsun 280Z (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1998 Toyota Corolla. (105 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1977 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 1998 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Datsun 280Z weights approximately 214 kg more than 1998 Toyota Corolla. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 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 1977 Datsun 280Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Toyota Corolla, 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, 1977 Datsun 280Z (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Toyota Corolla. (135 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1977 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Toyota Corolla. 1998 Toyota Corolla has automatic transmission and 1977 Datsun 280Z has manual transmission. 1977 Datsun 280Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Toyota Corolla will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Datsun 280Z | 1998 Toyota Corolla | |
| Make | Datsun | Toyota |
| Model | 280Z | Corolla |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2753 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1304 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4399 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1631 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2304 mm | 2470 mm |
