1996 Chevrolet Tracker vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1996 Chevrolet Tracker 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 54 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Tracker. (96 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Tracker. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Datsun 280Z weights approximately 74 kg more than 1996 Chevrolet Tracker. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Chevrolet Tracker 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, 1996 Chevrolet Tracker 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, 1978 Datsun 280Z (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Tracker. (139 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chevrolet Tracker. 1978 Datsun 280Z has automatic transmission and 1996 Chevrolet Tracker has manual transmission. 1996 Chevrolet Tracker 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 Chevrolet Tracker | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Datsun |
| Model | Tracker | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1978 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 139 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2304 mm |
