1989 Pontiac Trans Sport vs. 1976 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport 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 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport (164 HP @ 4300 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1976 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport should accelerate faster than 1976 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport weights approximately 266 kg more than 1976 Datsun 280Z. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Pontiac Trans Sport, 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 Pontiac Trans Sport (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Datsun 280Z. 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport has automatic transmission and 1976 Datsun 280Z has manual transmission. 1976 Datsun 280Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport | 1976 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Pontiac | Datsun |
| Model | Trans Sport | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2304 mm |
