1978 Datsun 280Z vs. 2010 Ford Falcon
To start off, 2010 Ford Falcon is newer by 32 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 3,983 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Ford Falcon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Ford Falcon (261 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Ford Falcon should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Ford Falcon weights approximately 400 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, 2010 Ford Falcon (391 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2010 Ford Falcon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 280Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Datsun 280Z | 2010 Ford Falcon | |
| Make | Datsun | Ford |
| Model | 280Z | Falcon |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2753 cc | 3983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 391 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 92.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 99.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1304 kg | 1704 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4399 mm | 4955 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1631 mm | 1868 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2304 mm | 2838 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 68 L |
