2005 Nissan 350Z vs. 1978 Renault 4
To start off, 2005 Nissan 350Z is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Renault 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault 4 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan 350Z (276 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 242 more horse power than 1978 Renault 4. (34 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 1001 kg more than 1978 Renault 4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Nissan 350Z 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 2005 Nissan 350Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Renault 4, 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 Nissan 350Z (363 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 291 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 4. (72 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2005 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Nissan 350Z | 1978 Renault 4 | |
| Make | Nissan | Renault |
| Model | 350Z | 4 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1108 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 363 Nm | 72 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.5 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1716 kg | 715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2410 mm |
