2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 28 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 31 more horse power than 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (119 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 673 kg more than 1978 Datsun 280Z.
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, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser, 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, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 280Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Chrysler | Datsun |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | 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 | 119 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1873 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4399 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 60 L |
