2003 Hyundai Santa Fe vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe 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 3,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe (194 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe weights approximately 486 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 Hyundai Santa Fe 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 Hyundai Santa Fe 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 Hyundai Santa Fe (304 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 280Z. 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe 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. 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Hyundai | Datsun |
| Model | Santa Fe | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3497 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 194 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1790 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 60 L |
