1992 Dodge Grand Caravan vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1992 Dodge Grand Caravan is newer by 14 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 2,971 cc (6 cylinders), 1992 Dodge Grand Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Datsun 280Z (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1992 Dodge Grand Caravan. (142 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 1992 Dodge Grand Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Dodge Grand Caravan weights approximately 271 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, 1992 Dodge Grand Caravan, 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, 1992 Dodge Grand Caravan (235 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1992 Dodge Grand Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 280Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Dodge Grand Caravan | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Dodge | Datsun |
| Model | Grand Caravan | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1992 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2971 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 79 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1575 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3040 mm | 2304 mm |
