2005 Audi A4 vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2005 Audi A4 is newer by 27 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 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Datsun 280Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Datsun 280Z (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2005 Audi A4. (129 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A4 weights approximately 236 kg more than 1978 Datsun 280Z.
Because 2005 Audi A4 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, 2005 Audi A4 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, 2005 Audi A4 (310 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 280Z. 1978 Datsun 280Z has automatic transmission and 2005 Audi A4 has manual transmission. 2005 Audi A4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Datsun 280Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A4 | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Audi | Datsun |
| Model | A4 | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 60 L |
