2003 Buick Rendezvous vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2003 Buick Rendezvous is newer by 25 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 3,350 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Buick Rendezvous is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Buick Rendezvous (185 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Buick Rendezvous should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Buick Rendezvous weights approximately 516 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.
Because 2003 Buick Rendezvous is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Datsun 280Z. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Buick Rendezvous will offer significantly more control. 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, 2003 Buick Rendezvous (285 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2003 Buick Rendezvous will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 280Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Buick Rendezvous | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Buick | Datsun |
| Model | Rendezvous | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3350 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1820 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2304 mm |
