1988 Buick Electra vs. 1975 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1988 Buick Electra is newer by 13 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 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Buick Electra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Buick Electra (163 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1975 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Buick Electra should accelerate faster than 1975 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Buick Electra weights approximately 375 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.
Because 1975 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 1975 Datsun 280Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Buick Electra, 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, 1988 Buick Electra (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1988 Buick Electra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Datsun 280Z. 1988 Buick Electra has automatic transmission and 1975 Datsun 280Z has manual transmission. 1975 Datsun 280Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 Buick Electra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Buick Electra | 1975 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Buick | Datsun |
| Model | Electra | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.6 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 79 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1575 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2304 mm |
