2009 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Corvette 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 6,160 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Corvette (424 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 274 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 280Z.
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 Chevrolet Corvette (424 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 203 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 280Z. 2009 Chevrolet Corvette 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. 2009 Chevrolet Corvette will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Corvette | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Datsun |
| Model | Corvette | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6160 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 424 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 424 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 103.3 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1631 mm |
