2004 Ford Mustang vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2004 Ford Mustang is newer by 26 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 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Mustang (300 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Mustang weights approximately 292 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, 2004 Ford Mustang (434 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 213 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 280Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Mustang | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Ford | Datsun |
| Model | Mustang | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4601 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 434 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.2 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1596 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 60 L |
