1989 Fiat Croma vs. 1976 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1989 Fiat Croma is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Datsun 280Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Datsun 280Z would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Datsun 280Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Datsun 280Z (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1989 Fiat Croma. (116 HP @ 4100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 1989 Fiat Croma. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Fiat Croma weights approximately 66 kg more than 1976 Datsun 280Z.
Because 1976 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 1976 Datsun 280Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Fiat Croma, 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, 1989 Fiat Croma (245 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1989 Fiat Croma will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Datsun 280Z. 1976 Datsun 280Z has automatic transmission and 1989 Fiat Croma has manual transmission. 1989 Fiat Croma will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Datsun 280Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Fiat Croma | 1976 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Fiat | Datsun |
| Model | Croma | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2499 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 20.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 60 L |
