2005 Ford Expedition vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2005 Ford Expedition 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 5,408 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Ford Expedition is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Ford Expedition (300 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ford Expedition should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Expedition weights approximately 79 kg more than 1978 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, 2005 Ford Expedition (495 Nm) has 274 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm). This means 2005 Ford Expedition will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 280Z. 2005 Ford Expedition has automatic transmission and 1978 Datsun 280Z has manual transmission. 1978 Datsun 280Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Ford Expedition will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Expedition | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Ford | Datsun |
| Model | Expedition | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5408 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 495 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.1 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 106 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.9:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1279 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5230 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 106 L | 60 L |
