1978 Datsun 280Z vs. 2005 Nissan 350Z
To start off, 2005 Nissan 350Z is newer by 27 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 3,489 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan 350Z (276 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 531 kg more than 1978 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, 2005 Nissan 350Z (372 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2005 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 280Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Datsun 280Z | 2005 Nissan 350Z | |
| Make | Datsun | Nissan |
| Model | 280Z | 350Z |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2753 cc | 3489 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 276 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 372 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 81.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1304 kg | 1835 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4399 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1631 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2304 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 80 L |
