2009 Porsche 911 vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2009 Porsche 911 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 3,823 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Porsche 911 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Porsche 911 (350 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 200 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Porsche 911 should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Porsche 911 weights approximately 46 kg more than 1978 Datsun 280Z. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Porsche 911 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 Porsche 911 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, 2009 Porsche 911 (400 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 179 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Porsche 911 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 280Z. 1978 Datsun 280Z has automatic transmission and 2009 Porsche 911 has manual transmission. 2009 Porsche 911 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 Porsche 911 | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Porsche | Datsun |
| Model | 911 | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 3823 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1310 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 60 L |
