1978 Peugeot 305 vs. 1977 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1978 Peugeot 305 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Datsun 280Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Datsun 280Z would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Datsun 280Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Datsun 280Z (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1978 Peugeot 305. (72 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 1978 Peugeot 305. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Datsun 280Z weights approximately 364 kg more than 1978 Peugeot 305. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 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 1977 Datsun 280Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Peugeot 305, 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, 1977 Datsun 280Z (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Peugeot 305. (117 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1977 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Peugeot 305.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Peugeot 305 | 1977 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Peugeot | Datsun |
| Model | 305 | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1472 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 117 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 79 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2304 mm |
