2008 Audi A3 vs. 1976 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Datsun 280Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Datsun 280Z would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Datsun 280Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Datsun 280Z (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 305 kg more than 1976 Datsun 280Z.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1976 Datsun 280Z. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 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, 2008 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Datsun 280Z. 2008 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1976 Datsun 280Z has manual transmission. 1976 Datsun 280Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1976 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Audi | Datsun |
| Model | A3 | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 60 L |
