1966 AC Cobra vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 1978 Datsun 260Z is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 AC Cobra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 AC Cobra would be higher. At 6,997 cc (8 cylinders), 1966 AC Cobra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 AC Cobra (410 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 247 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1966 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1966 AC Cobra weights approximately 47 kg more than 1978 Datsun 260Z. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1966 AC Cobra (651 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 438 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1966 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 260Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 AC Cobra | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | AC | Datsun |
| Model | Cobra | 260Z |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6997 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 410 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 651 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 107.7 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 266 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 60 L |
