1996 Audi A4 vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1996 Audi A4 is newer by 18 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 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Datsun 280Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Datsun 280Z (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1996 Audi A4. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Datsun 280Z weights approximately 39 kg more than 1996 Audi A4. 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, 1996 Audi A4, 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, 1978 Datsun 280Z (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A4. (173 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 1978 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A4. 1978 Datsun 280Z has automatic transmission and 1996 Audi A4 has manual transmission. 1996 Audi A4 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:
| 1996 Audi A4 | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Audi | Datsun |
| Model | A4 | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 60 L |
