1989 Plymouth Laser vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1989 Plymouth Laser 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 17 more horse power than 1989 Plymouth Laser. (133 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 1989 Plymouth Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Plymouth Laser weights approximately 30 kg more than 1978 Datsun 280Z.
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 Plymouth Laser, 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 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Plymouth Laser. (169 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1978 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Plymouth Laser.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Plymouth Laser | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Plymouth | Datsun |
| Model | Laser | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 133 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2304 mm |
