1991 Chevrolet Lumina vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1991 Chevrolet Lumina 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 42 more horse power than 1991 Chevrolet Lumina. (108 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 1991 Chevrolet Lumina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Chevrolet Lumina weights approximately 76 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, 1991 Chevrolet Lumina, 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 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Chevrolet Lumina. (183 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1978 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Chevrolet Lumina. 1991 Chevrolet Lumina has automatic transmission and 1978 Datsun 280Z has manual transmission. 1978 Datsun 280Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1991 Chevrolet Lumina will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Chevrolet Lumina | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Datsun |
| Model | Lumina | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2472 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 79 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 60 L |
