1978 Datsun 280Z vs. 2013 Ford F-150
To start off, 2013 Ford F-150 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 5,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 Ford F-150 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Ford F-150 (355 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 205 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Ford F-150 should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Ford F-150 weights approximately 1230 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.
Because 2013 Ford F-150 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Datsun 280Z. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Ford F-150 will offer significantly more control. 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 Ford F-150 (515 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 294 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2013 Ford F-150 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 280Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Datsun 280Z | 2013 Ford F-150 | |
| Make | Datsun | Ford |
| Model | 280Z | F-150 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2753 cc | 5000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 355 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 515 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1304 kg | 2534 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4399 mm | 5888 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1631 mm | 2464 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2304 mm | 3683 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 136 L |
