1989 Ford Meteor vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1989 Ford Meteor 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 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Datsun 280Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Datsun 280Z (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1989 Ford Meteor. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Meteor.
Because 1978 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 1978 Datsun 280Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Ford Meteor, 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, 1978 Datsun 280Z (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Meteor. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1978 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Meteor. 1978 Datsun 280Z has automatic transmission and 1989 Ford Meteor has manual transmission. 1989 Ford Meteor 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 Ford Meteor | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Ford | Datsun |
| Model | Meteor | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2304 mm |
