2001 Pontiac Firebird vs. 1977 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2001 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 24 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 5,665 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Pontiac Firebird (325 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 175 more horse power than 1977 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1977 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 237 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, 2001 Pontiac Firebird (475 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 254 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2001 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Datsun 280Z. 1977 Datsun 280Z has automatic transmission and 2001 Pontiac Firebird has manual transmission. 2001 Pontiac Firebird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1977 Datsun 280Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Pontiac Firebird | 1977 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Pontiac | Datsun |
| Model | Firebird | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5665 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 325 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 475 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 99 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1541 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 60 L |
