1991 Caterham Super 7 vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1991 Caterham Super 7 is newer by 13 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 30 more horse power than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (120 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 1991 Caterham Super 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Datsun 280Z weights approximately 690 kg more than 1991 Caterham Super 7. 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, 1978 Datsun 280Z (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (143 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1978 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Caterham Super 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Caterham Super 7 | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Caterham | Datsun |
| Model | Super 7 | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 60 L |
