1994 Chevrolet Astro vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1994 Chevrolet Astro is newer by 16 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 4,293 cc (6 cylinders), 1994 Chevrolet Astro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Chevrolet Astro (183 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1994 Chevrolet Astro should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Chevrolet Astro weights approximately 591 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.
Because 1994 Chevrolet Astro is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Datsun 280Z. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 Chevrolet Astro will offer significantly more control. 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, 1994 Chevrolet Astro (338 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1994 Chevrolet Astro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 280Z. 1978 Datsun 280Z has automatic transmission and 1994 Chevrolet Astro has manual transmission. 1994 Chevrolet Astro 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:
| 1994 Chevrolet Astro | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Datsun |
| Model | Astro | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1994 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4293 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 183 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1895 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2304 mm |
