2005 Fiat Panda vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2005 Fiat Panda 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 90 more horse power than 2005 Fiat Panda. (60 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 2005 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Datsun 280Z weights approximately 204 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 2005 Fiat Panda 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 Fiat Panda 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, 1978 Datsun 280Z (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Fiat Panda. (106 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1978 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Fiat Panda | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Fiat | Datsun |
| Model | Panda | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 60 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.8 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 30 L | 60 L |
