1999 Honda Z vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1999 Honda Z is newer by 21 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 99 more horse power than 1999 Honda Z. (51 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 1999 Honda Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Datsun 280Z weights approximately 240 kg more than 1999 Honda Z. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Honda Z is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Datsun 280Z. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Honda Z will offer significantly more control. 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 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Honda Z. (61 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Honda Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Honda Z | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Honda | Datsun |
| Model | Z | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 656 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 64 mm | 79 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3410 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 60 L |
