2009 Fiat Croma vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2009 Fiat Croma 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 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Datsun 280Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Datsun 280Z (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2009 Fiat Croma. (146 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 2009 Fiat Croma. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Datsun 280Z weights approximately 260 kg more than 2009 Fiat Croma. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Datsun 280Z is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1978 Datsun 280Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Fiat Croma, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1978 Datsun 280Z (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Fiat Croma. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Fiat Croma. 2009 Fiat Croma 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 Fiat Croma will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Fiat Croma | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Fiat | Datsun |
| Model | Croma | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 60 L |
