1993 Holden Commodore vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1993 Holden Commodore is newer by 15 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 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1993 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Holden Commodore (173 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1993 Holden Commodore should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Holden Commodore weights approximately 71 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, 1993 Holden Commodore (295 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1993 Holden Commodore will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 280Z. 1978 Datsun 280Z has automatic transmission and 1993 Holden Commodore has manual transmission. 1993 Holden Commodore will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Datsun 280Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 Holden Commodore | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Holden | Datsun |
| Model | Commodore | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1993 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 295 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2304 mm |
