1998 Buick Signia vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1998 Buick Signia is newer by 20 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 3,800 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Buick Signia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Buick Signia (238 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Buick Signia should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Buick Signia weights approximately 540 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, 1998 Buick Signia, 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, 1998 Buick Signia (387 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 166 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1998 Buick Signia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 280Z.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Buick Signia | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
Make | Buick | Datsun |
Model | Signia | 280Z |
Year Released | 1998 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3800 cc | 2753 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 238 HP | 150 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 387 Nm | 221 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 1200 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4399 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1631 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2304 mm |