2004 Mercedes-Benz CL vs. 1977 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Datsun 280Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Datsun 280Z would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 152 more horse power than 1977 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1977 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 561 kg more than 1977 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 Mercedes-Benz CL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 239 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Datsun 280Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL | 1977 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Datsun |
| Model | CL | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 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 | 1865 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 99 L | 60 L |
