1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse 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 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Datsun 280Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Datsun 280Z (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse. (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 120 kg more than 1978 Datsun 280Z.
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 Mitsubishi Eclipse, 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, 1978 Datsun 280Z (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse. (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1978 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse. 1978 Datsun 280Z has automatic transmission and 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse has manual transmission. 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Datsun 280Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
Make | Mitsubishi | Datsun |
Model | Eclipse | 280Z |
Year Released | 1998 | 1978 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2753 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 141 HP | 150 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 177 Nm | 221 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | 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 | 4390 mm | 4399 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1631 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2304 mm |