1998 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1998 Chevrolet Corvette 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 5,737 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Chevrolet Corvette (277 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chevrolet Corvette weights approximately 372 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.
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 Corvette (437 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 216 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1998 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 280Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Chevrolet Corvette | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Datsun |
| Model | Corvette | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5737 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 277 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 437 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 99.1 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91.9 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1572 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 117 L | 60 L |
