1978 Datsun 280Z vs. 1986 Nissan Leopard
To start off, 1986 Nissan Leopard is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Datsun 280Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Datsun 280Z would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Datsun 280Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Datsun 280Z (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1986 Nissan Leopard. (98 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 1986 Nissan Leopard. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Datsun 280Z weights approximately 199 kg more than 1986 Nissan Leopard. 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, 1978 Datsun 280Z (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Nissan Leopard. (147 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1978 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Nissan Leopard. 1986 Nissan Leopard has automatic transmission and 1978 Datsun 280Z has manual transmission. 1978 Datsun 280Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Nissan Leopard will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Datsun 280Z | 1986 Nissan Leopard | |
| Make | Datsun | Nissan |
| Model | 280Z | Leopard |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2753 cc | 1770 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 98 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1304 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4399 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1631 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2304 mm | 2630 mm |
