2002 Jaguar XJ vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2002 Jaguar XJ 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 3,248 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Jaguar XJ is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Jaguar XJ (240 HP @ 6350 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Jaguar XJ should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Jaguar XJ weights approximately 510 kg more than 1978 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, 2002 Jaguar XJ (316 Nm @ 4350 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2002 Jaguar XJ will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 280Z. 2002 Jaguar XJ 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 Jaguar XJ will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Jaguar XJ | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Jaguar | Datsun |
| Model | XJ | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3248 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6350 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 316 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4350 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 79 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1710 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2304 mm |
