2005 Lancia Thesis vs. 1977 Datsun 280Z

To start off, 2005 Lancia Thesis is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Datsun 280Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Datsun 280Z would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Datsun 280Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Datsun 280Z (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2005 Lancia Thesis. (148 HP @ 4100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 2005 Lancia Thesis. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Lancia Thesis weights approximately 411 kg more than 1977 Datsun 280Z.

Because 1977 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 1977 Datsun 280Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Lancia Thesis, 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 Lancia Thesis (305 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2005 Lancia Thesis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Datsun 280Z. 1977 Datsun 280Z has automatic transmission and 2005 Lancia Thesis has manual transmission. 2005 Lancia Thesis will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1977 Datsun 280Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2005 Lancia Thesis 1977 Datsun 280Z
Make Lancia Datsun
Model Thesis 280Z
Year Released 2005 1977
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2385 cc 2753 cc
Engine Cylinders 5 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 148 HP 150 HP
Engine RPM 4100 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 305 Nm 221 Nm
Torque RPM 1800 RPM 4400 RPM
Engine Bore Size 82 mm 86.1 mm
Engine Stroke Size 90.4 mm 79 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 19.0:1 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 4 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1715 kg 1304 kg
Vehicle Length 4890 mm 4399 mm
Vehicle Width 1840 mm 1631 mm
Wheelbase Size 2830 mm 2304 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 75 L 60 L