1995 Oldsmobile Cutlass vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1995 Oldsmobile Cutlass is newer by 17 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 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 1995 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Oldsmobile Cutlass (158 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Oldsmobile Cutlass should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 336 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 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, 1995 Oldsmobile Cutlass, 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, 1995 Oldsmobile Cutlass (251 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1995 Oldsmobile Cutlass will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 280Z. 1995 Oldsmobile Cutlass has automatic transmission and 1978 Datsun 280Z has manual transmission. 1978 Datsun 280Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1995 Oldsmobile Cutlass will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Oldsmobile Cutlass | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Oldsmobile | Datsun |
| Model | Cutlass | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1536 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2304 mm |
