2001 Buick LeSabre vs. 1976 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2001 Buick LeSabre is newer by 25 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 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Buick LeSabre is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Buick LeSabre (205 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1976 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Buick LeSabre should accelerate faster than 1976 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Buick LeSabre weights approximately 316 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.
Because 1976 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 1976 Datsun 280Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Buick LeSabre, 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, 2001 Buick LeSabre (311 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2001 Buick LeSabre will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Datsun 280Z. 2001 Buick LeSabre 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. 2001 Buick LeSabre will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Buick LeSabre | 1976 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Buick | Datsun |
| Model | LeSabre | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 205 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 60 L |
