1978 Datsun 280Z vs. 2012 Fiat Panda
To start off, 2012 Fiat Panda is newer by 34 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 91 more horse power than 2012 Fiat Panda. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 2012 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Datsun 280Z weights approximately 351 kg more than 2012 Fiat Panda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Datsun 280Z is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1978 Datsun 280Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Fiat Panda, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 119 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Fiat Panda. (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1978 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Datsun 280Z | 2012 Fiat Panda | |
| Make | Datsun | Fiat |
| Model | 280Z | Panda |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2753 cc | 1242 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 70.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1304 kg | 953 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4399 mm | 3540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1631 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2304 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 35 L |
