2009 Chevrolet Suburban vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Suburban 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 5,967 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Suburban (352 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 202 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Suburban 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 Suburban (519 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 298 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Suburban will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 280Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Suburban | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Datsun |
| Model | Suburban | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5967 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 352 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 519 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5660 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3310 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 148 L | 60 L |
