1978 Datsun 280Z vs. 2013 Chevrolet Corvette
To start off, 2013 Chevrolet Corvette is newer by 35 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 6,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Chevrolet Corvette (424 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 274 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Chevrolet Corvette weights approximately 218 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, 2013 Chevrolet Corvette (637 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 416 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2013 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 280Z. 1978 Datsun 280Z has automatic transmission and 2013 Chevrolet Corvette has manual transmission. 2013 Chevrolet Corvette will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Datsun 280Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Datsun 280Z | 2013 Chevrolet Corvette | |
| Make | Datsun | Chevrolet |
| Model | 280Z | Corvette |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2753 cc | 6200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 424 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 637 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 104 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 101 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1304 kg | 1522 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4399 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1631 mm | 1928 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2304 mm | 2685 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 68 L |
