2008 Chevrolet Avalanche vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Avalanche is newer by 30 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 5,300 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Chevrolet Avalanche is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet Avalanche (320 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 170 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Avalanche should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chevrolet Avalanche weights approximately 896 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 2008 Chevrolet Avalanche 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, 2008 Chevrolet Avalanche 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 Chevrolet Avalanche (461 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet Avalanche will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 280Z. 2008 Chevrolet Avalanche 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. 2008 Chevrolet Avalanche will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet Avalanche | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Datsun |
| Model | Avalanche | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5300 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 320 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 461 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2200 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5630 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3310 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 117 L | 60 L |
