1998 Chevrolet Camaro vs. 1977 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1998 Chevrolet Camaro is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Datsun 280Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Datsun 280Z would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Chevrolet Camaro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Chevrolet Camaro (190 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1977 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Chevrolet Camaro should accelerate faster than 1977 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chevrolet Camaro weights approximately 390 kg more than 1977 Datsun 280Z. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1998 Chevrolet Camaro (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1998 Chevrolet Camaro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Datsun 280Z. 1977 Datsun 280Z has automatic transmission and 1998 Chevrolet Camaro has manual transmission. 1998 Chevrolet Camaro will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1977 Datsun 280Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Chevrolet Camaro | 1977 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Datsun |
| Model | Camaro | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2304 mm |
