2003 Dodge Dakota vs. 1976 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2003 Dodge Dakota is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Datsun 280Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Datsun 280Z would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Datsun 280Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Datsun 280Z (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2003 Dodge Dakota. (118 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 2003 Dodge Dakota. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 336 kg more than 1976 Datsun 280Z.
Because 2003 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1976 Datsun 280Z. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Dodge Dakota 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, 1976 Datsun 280Z (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Dodge Dakota. (196 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1976 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Dodge Dakota. 1976 Datsun 280Z has automatic transmission and 2003 Dodge Dakota has manual transmission. 2003 Dodge Dakota will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Datsun 280Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Dodge Dakota | 1976 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Dodge | Datsun |
| Model | Dakota | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2458 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1536 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2304 mm |
