2009 Dodge Charger vs. 1976 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2009 Dodge Charger is newer by 33 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 3,518 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Charger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Charger (250 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1976 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Charger should accelerate faster than 1976 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Charger weights approximately 492 kg more than 1976 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 Dodge Charger (339 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Charger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Datsun 280Z. 2009 Dodge Charger 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. 2009 Dodge Charger will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Charger | 1976 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Dodge | Datsun |
| Model | Charger | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3518 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1692 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3050 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 60 L |
