1991 Mercedes-Benz 600 vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 600 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 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1991 Mercedes-Benz 600 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 600 (408 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 258 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 600 should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Mercedes-Benz 600 weights approximately 926 kg more than 1978 Datsun 280Z. 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, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 600 (580 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 359 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1991 Mercedes-Benz 600 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 280Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Mercedes-Benz 600 | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Datsun |
| Model | 600 | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5987 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 408 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 580 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.1 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.2 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2230 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5220 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3150 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 60 L |
