Japan vs West Germany — 1979 vs 1978
| 280ZX Turbo | Monza 3.0E GSE | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 180 hp | 180 hp |
| Torque | 220 lb-ft | 181 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,753 cc | 2,969 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 7.4 sec | 8.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 130 mph | 137 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.6 sec | 16.0 sec |
| Weight | 2,888 lbs | 2,932 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,520 mm | 2,668 mm |
| Length | 4,525 mm | 4,692 mm |
| Units Produced | 446,392 | 43,728 |
| Original MSRP | $13,999 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $45,000 | $30,000 |
| Collectibility | 6/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 4/10 | 7/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1979 Datsun 280ZX Turbo brings quicker acceleration, stronger collectibility to the table, and the 1978 Opel Monza 3.0E GSE answers with higher top speed, greater rarity. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
The rivalry between Japan and West Germany automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1979 Datsun 280ZX Turbo versus 1978 Opel Monza 3.0E GSE is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1979 Datsun 280ZX Turbo producing 180 hp and the 1978 Opel Monza 3.0E GSE delivering 180 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Datsun 280ZX uses a Inline-6 SOHC Turbocharged displacing 2,753 cc, while the Opel Monza relies on a Inline-6 OHC with 2,969 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1979 Datsun 280ZX Turbo edges ahead at 7.4 seconds versus 8.0 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 43,728 units built, the 1978 Opel Monza 3.0E GSE is considerably scarcer than the Datsun 280ZX's 446,392 examples. Both trade at comparable values on the collector market, making the choice between them largely one of personal preference.