2005 Ford Mondeo vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2005 Ford Mondeo 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, 2005 Ford Mondeo (154 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ford Mondeo should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Mondeo weights approximately 174 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.
Because 1978 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 1978 Datsun 280Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Ford Mondeo, 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 Ford Mondeo (367 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2005 Ford Mondeo 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 Ford Mondeo has manual transmission. 2005 Ford Mondeo 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 Ford Mondeo | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Ford | Datsun |
| Model | Mondeo | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 367 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.5:1 | 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 | 1478 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 60 L |
