2012 Kia Soul vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2012 Kia Soul is newer by 34 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 12 more horse power than 2012 Kia Soul. (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 2012 Kia Soul. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Datsun 280Z weights approximately 118 kg more than 2012 Kia Soul. 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, 2012 Kia Soul, 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 54 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Soul. (167 Nm @ 4850 RPM). This means 1978 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Kia Soul.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Kia Soul | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Kia | Datsun |
| Model | Soul | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1600 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4850 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1186 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1786 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 60 L |
