1998 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1976 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S 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 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S (221 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1976 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1976 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 502 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 Mercedes-Benz S (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Datsun 280Z. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1976 Datsun 280Z has manual transmission. 1976 Datsun 280Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz S | 1976 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Datsun |
| Model | S | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1806 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 60 L |
