2005 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C 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 9 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. (141 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 216 kg more than 1978 Datsun 280Z.
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 Mercedes-Benz C (340 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 280Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Datsun |
| Model | C | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.1 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1304 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 60 L |
