1997 Nissan 400 R vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1997 Nissan 400 R 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 2,768 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Nissan 400 R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Nissan 400 R (400 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 250 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Nissan 400 R should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Nissan 400 R weights approximately 350 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 1997 Nissan 400 R 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, 1997 Nissan 400 R 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, 1997 Nissan 400 R (471 Nm) has 250 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm). This means 1997 Nissan 400 R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 280Z. 1978 Datsun 280Z has automatic transmission and 1997 Nissan 400 R has manual transmission. 1997 Nissan 400 R 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:
1997 Nissan 400 R | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
Make | Nissan | Datsun |
Model | 400 R | 280Z |
Year Released | 1997 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2768 cc | 2753 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 400 HP | 150 HP |
Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 471 Nm | 221 Nm |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1200 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4399 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1631 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2304 mm |