1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 vs. 1975 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Datsun 280Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Datsun 280Z would be higher. At 3,818 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 (215 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1975 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 should accelerate faster than 1975 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 weights approximately 396 kg more than 1975 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, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Datsun 280Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 | 1975 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Datsun |
| Model | 380 | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3818 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.8 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1596 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 60 L |
