2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z

To start off, 2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee 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 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee (208 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee weights approximately 831 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 2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Datsun 280Z. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee will offer significantly more control. 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 Jeep Grand Cherokee (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 280Z. 2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee has automatic transmission and 1978 Datsun 280Z has manual transmission. 1978 Datsun 280Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee 1978 Datsun 280Z
Make Jeep Datsun
Model Grand Cherokee 280Z
Year Released 2006 1978
Body Type SUV Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3700 cc 2753 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 208 HP 150 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 319 Nm 221 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4400 RPM
Engine Bore Size 93 mm 86.1 mm
Engine Stroke Size 90.7 mm 79 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 3.6:1 8.3:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type 4WD Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 2031 kg 1200 kg
Vehicle Length 4750 mm 4399 mm
Vehicle Width 2150 mm 1631 mm
Wheelbase Size 2790 mm 2304 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 78 L 60 L