2009 Cadillac CTS vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2009 Cadillac CTS is newer by 31 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 3,599 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Cadillac CTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac CTS (263 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 331 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, 2009 Cadillac CTS (343 Nm @ 3100 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 280Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Cadillac CTS | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Cadillac | Datsun |
| Model | CTS | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3599 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 263 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 343 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 60 L |
