1999 Oldsmobile Cutlass vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1999 Oldsmobile Cutlass 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 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 150 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 96 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, 1999 Oldsmobile Cutlass, 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, 1999 Oldsmobile Cutlass (249 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1999 Oldsmobile Cutlass will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 280Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Oldsmobile Cutlass | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Oldsmobile | Datsun |
| Model | Cutlass | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 249 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 60 L |
