1968 Peugeot 204 vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 1978 Datsun 260Z is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Peugeot 204. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Peugeot 204 would be higher. At 2,565 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Datsun 260Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Datsun 260Z (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1968 Peugeot 204. (47 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 1968 Peugeot 204. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Datsun 260Z weights approximately 320 kg more than 1968 Peugeot 204. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Datsun 260Z 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 260Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1968 Peugeot 204, 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 260Z (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Peugeot 204. (84 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1978 Datsun 260Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Peugeot 204. 1978 Datsun 260Z has automatic transmission and 1968 Peugeot 204 has manual transmission. 1968 Peugeot 204 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Datsun 260Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Peugeot 204 | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Peugeot | Datsun |
| Model | 204 | 260Z |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1130 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 64 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2581 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 60 L |
