1999 GMC Safari vs. 1977 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1999 GMC Safari is newer by 22 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 4,291 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 GMC Safari is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 GMC Safari (187 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1977 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 GMC Safari should accelerate faster than 1977 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 GMC Safari weights approximately 651 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, 1999 GMC Safari (338 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1999 GMC Safari will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Datsun 280Z. 1999 GMC Safari has automatic transmission and 1977 Datsun 280Z has manual transmission. 1977 Datsun 280Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 GMC Safari will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 GMC Safari | 1977 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | GMC | Datsun |
| Model | Safari | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Van | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4291 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 102 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 79 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1955 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 98 L | 60 L |
