1997 Mitsubishi Verada vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1997 Mitsubishi Verada 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 3,497 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mitsubishi Verada is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mitsubishi Verada (197 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mitsubishi Verada should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mitsubishi Verada weights approximately 206 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, 1997 Mitsubishi Verada, 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, 1997 Mitsubishi Verada (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1997 Mitsubishi Verada will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 280Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mitsubishi Verada | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Datsun |
| Model | Verada | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3497 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4940 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2304 mm |
