1978 Datsun 280Z vs. 2013 Volvo C70
To start off, 2013 Volvo C70 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 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Datsun 280Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volvo C70 (224 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volvo C70 should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volvo C70 weights approximately 551 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 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, 2013 Volvo C70, 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, 2013 Volvo C70 (236 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2013 Volvo C70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 280Z. 2013 Volvo C70 has automatic transmission and 1978 Datsun 280Z has manual transmission. 1978 Datsun 280Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 Volvo C70 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Datsun 280Z | 2013 Volvo C70 | |
| Make | Datsun | Volvo |
| Model | 280Z | C70 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2753 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 224 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 93 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1751 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4399 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1631 mm | 1836 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2304 mm | 2640 mm |
