1984 Maserati 420 vs. 1977 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1984 Maserati 420 is newer by 7 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, 1984 Maserati 420 (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1977 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1984 Maserati 420 should accelerate faster than 1977 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Datsun 280Z weights approximately 124 kg more than 1984 Maserati 420.
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, 1984 Maserati 420 (308 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1984 Maserati 420 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Datsun 280Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Maserati 420 | 1977 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Maserati | Datsun |
| Model | 420 | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1984 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2491 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 308 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2304 mm |
