2005 Nissan Maxima vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2005 Nissan Maxima 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 2,988 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan Maxima (197 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 340 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 Nissan Maxima, 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 Maxima (271 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2005 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 280Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Nissan Maxima | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Nissan | Datsun |
| Model | Maxima | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2988 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.3 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
