2009 Kia Rio vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2009 Kia Rio 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 69 more horse power than 2009 Kia Rio. (81 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 2009 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Kia Rio weights approximately 204 kg more than 1978 Datsun 280Z.
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 Kia Rio, 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 104 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Rio. (117 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1978 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Rio. 1978 Datsun 280Z has automatic transmission and 2009 Kia Rio has manual transmission. 2009 Kia Rio 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 Kia Rio | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Kia | Datsun |
| Model | Rio | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1343 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 117 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75.5 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 79 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1508 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 60 L |
