2006 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S 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 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S (383 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 233 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 681 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.
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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S (531 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 310 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 280Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz S | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Datsun |
| Model | S | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5461 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 383 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 531 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 98 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.5 mm | 79 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1985 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3170 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 60 L |
