1989 Ferrari Testarossa vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1989 Ferrari Testarossa is newer by 11 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 4,943 cc (12 cylinders), 1989 Ferrari Testarossa is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Ferrari Testarossa (385 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 235 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Ferrari Testarossa should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ferrari Testarossa weights approximately 330 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.
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, 1989 Ferrari Testarossa (500 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 279 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1989 Ferrari Testarossa will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 280Z. 1978 Datsun 280Z has automatic transmission and 1989 Ferrari Testarossa has manual transmission. 1989 Ferrari Testarossa will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Datsun 280Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ferrari Testarossa | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Ferrari | Datsun |
| Model | Testarossa | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4943 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 385 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 500 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2304 mm |
