2002 TVR Griffith vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2002 TVR Griffith 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 4,988 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 TVR Griffith is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 TVR Griffith (335 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 185 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 TVR Griffith should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Datsun 280Z weights approximately 138 kg more than 2002 TVR Griffith.
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 TVR Griffith (484 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 263 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2002 TVR Griffith will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 280Z. 1978 Datsun 280Z has automatic transmission and 2002 TVR Griffith has manual transmission. 2002 TVR Griffith will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Datsun 280Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 TVR Griffith | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | TVR | Datsun |
| Model | Griffith | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4988 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 484 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1062 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2304 mm |
