1978 Datsun 280Z vs. 2011 Nissan 370Z
To start off, 2011 Nissan 370Z is newer by 33 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 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Nissan 370Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Nissan 370Z (332 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 182 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan 370Z should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Nissan 370Z weights approximately 274 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, 2011 Nissan 370Z (366 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2011 Nissan 370Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 280Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Datsun 280Z | 2011 Nissan 370Z | |
| Make | Datsun | Nissan |
| Model | 280Z | 370Z |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2753 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 332 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1304 kg | 1578 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4399 mm | 4247 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1631 mm | 1849 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2304 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 72 L |
