1997 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1997 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 19 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 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Datsun 280Z (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 316 kg more than 1978 Datsun 280Z.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1997 Ford Thunderbird (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 280Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Thunderbird | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Ford | Datsun |
| Model | Thunderbird | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 79 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 60 L |
