1966 Datsun 1000 vs. 1978 Ford Mustang
To start off, 1978 Ford Mustang is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Datsun 1000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Datsun 1000 would be higher. At 2,294 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Ford Mustang (87 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1966 Datsun 1000. (61 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1966 Datsun 1000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Ford Mustang weights approximately 560 kg more than 1966 Datsun 1000. 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, 1978 Ford Mustang (161 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Datsun 1000. (84 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Datsun 1000.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Datsun 1000 | 1978 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Datsun | Ford |
| Model | 1000 | Mustang |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 988 cc | 2294 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 61 HP | 87 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 161 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 625 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2560 mm |
