2012 Toyota Corolla vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2012 Toyota Corolla 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 18 more horse power than 2012 Toyota Corolla. (132 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 2012 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Toyota Corolla weights approximately 55 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, 2012 Toyota Corolla, 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 48 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Toyota Corolla. (173 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1978 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Toyota Corolla. 2012 Toyota Corolla has automatic transmission and 1978 Datsun 280Z has manual transmission. 1978 Datsun 280Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Toyota Corolla will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Toyota Corolla | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Toyota | Datsun |
| Model | Corolla | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1800 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 132 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4554 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1763 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2601 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |
