2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS vs. 1976 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 28 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS (469 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 319 more horse power than 1976 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1976 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 656 kg more than 1976 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 CLS (701 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 480 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Datsun 280Z. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS has automatic transmission and 1976 Datsun 280Z has manual transmission. 1976 Datsun 280Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS | 1976 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Datsun |
| Model | CLS | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 469 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 701 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2650 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 79 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1960 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 60 L |
