2012 Mini Cooper vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2012 Mini Cooper 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, 2012 Mini Cooper (208 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mini Cooper should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Datsun 280Z weights approximately 9 kg more than 2012 Mini Cooper.
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 Mini Cooper, 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, 2012 Mini Cooper (260 Nm @ 1850 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2012 Mini Cooper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 280Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Mini Cooper | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Mini | Datsun |
| Model | Cooper | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Convertible | 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 | 208 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1850 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3734 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1684 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2466 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |
