1997 Dodge Caravan vs. 1976 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1997 Dodge Caravan is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Datsun 280Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Datsun 280Z would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Datsun 280Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Datsun 280Z (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1997 Dodge Caravan. (131 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 1997 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 600 kg more than 1976 Datsun 280Z.
Because 1976 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 1976 Datsun 280Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Dodge Caravan, 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, 1976 Datsun 280Z (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Dodge Caravan. (174 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 1976 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Dodge Caravan | 1976 Datsun 280Z | |
Make | Dodge | Datsun |
Model | Caravan | 280Z |
Year Released | 1997 | 1976 |
Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1996 cc | 2753 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 131 HP | 150 HP |
Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 174 Nm | 221 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 7 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1200 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4399 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1631 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2304 mm |