2009 Fiat Panda vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2009 Fiat Panda 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 81 more horse power than 2009 Fiat Panda. (69 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 2009 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Datsun 280Z weights approximately 164 kg more than 2009 Fiat Panda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Fiat Panda is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Datsun 280Z. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Fiat Panda will offer significantly more control. 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 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Fiat Panda. (180 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1978 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Fiat Panda. 1978 Datsun 280Z has automatic transmission and 2009 Fiat Panda has manual transmission. 2009 Fiat Panda will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Datsun 280Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Fiat Panda | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Fiat | Datsun |
| Model | Panda | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1248 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 69.6 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 60 L |
