2007 Mini Cooper vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2007 Mini Cooper is newer by 29 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 35 more horse power than 2007 Mini Cooper. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 2007 Mini Cooper. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Datsun 280Z weights approximately 179 kg more than 2007 Mini Cooper. 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, 2007 Mini Cooper, 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, 1978 Datsun 280Z (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mini Cooper. (151 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1978 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mini Cooper.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mini Cooper | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Mini | Datsun |
| Model | Cooper | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.6:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1410 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |
