1992 Mercedes-Benz 420 vs. 1976 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1992 Mercedes-Benz 420 is newer by 16 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 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1992 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Mercedes-Benz 420 (296 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 1976 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 Mercedes-Benz 420 should accelerate faster than 1976 Datsun 280Z.
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, 1992 Mercedes-Benz 420 (410 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 189 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1992 Mercedes-Benz 420 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Datsun 280Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Mercedes-Benz 420 | 1976 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Datsun |
| Model | 420 | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1992 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4196 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 60 L |
