1998 Maserati Shamal vs. 1976 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1998 Maserati Shamal is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Datsun 280Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Datsun 280Z would be higher. At 3,217 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Maserati Shamal is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Maserati Shamal (322 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 172 more horse power than 1976 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Maserati Shamal should accelerate faster than 1976 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Maserati Shamal weights approximately 120 kg more than 1976 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 Maserati Shamal (444 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 223 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1998 Maserati Shamal will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Datsun 280Z. 1976 Datsun 280Z has automatic transmission and 1998 Maserati Shamal has manual transmission. 1998 Maserati Shamal will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Datsun 280Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Maserati Shamal | 1976 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Maserati | Datsun |
| Model | Shamal | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3217 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 322 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 444 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 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 | 1320 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4110 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2304 mm |
