2005 Fiat Panda vs. 1976 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2005 Fiat Panda is newer by 29 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 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Datsun 280Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Datsun 280Z (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 2005 Fiat Panda. (69 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 2005 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Datsun 280Z weights approximately 369 kg more than 2005 Fiat Panda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Datsun 280Z is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1976 Datsun 280Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Fiat Panda, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Fiat Panda (255 Nm) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm). This means 2005 Fiat Panda will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Datsun 280Z. 1976 Datsun 280Z has automatic transmission and 2005 Fiat Panda has manual transmission. 2005 Fiat Panda will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Datsun 280Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Fiat Panda | 1976 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Fiat | Datsun |
| Model | Panda | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1248 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 69.7 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 935 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 60 L |
