1978 Datsun 280Z vs. 2006 Cadillac CTS
To start off, 2006 Cadillac CTS is newer by 28 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 3,564 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Cadillac CTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Cadillac CTS (252 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 442 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, 2006 Cadillac CTS (342 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2006 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 280Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Datsun 280Z | 2006 Cadillac CTS | |
| Make | Datsun | Cadillac |
| Model | 280Z | CTS |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2753 cc | 3564 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 342 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1304 kg | 1746 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4399 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1631 mm | 1800 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2304 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 66 L |
