2002 Honda Accord vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2002 Honda Accord is newer by 24 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, 2002 Honda Accord (152 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Honda Accord should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Datsun 280Z weights approximately 464 kg more than 2002 Honda Accord.
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, 2002 Honda Accord, 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, 1978 Datsun 280Z (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Honda Accord. (190 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1978 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Honda Accord. 2002 Honda Accord has automatic transmission and 1978 Datsun 280Z has manual transmission. 1978 Datsun 280Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Honda Accord will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Honda Accord | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Honda | Datsun |
| Model | Accord | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 152 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 60 L |
