1971 Citroen DS vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 1978 Datsun 260Z is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Citroen DS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Citroen DS 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 65 more horse power than 1971 Citroen DS. (98 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 1971 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Citroen DS weights approximately 12 kg more than 1978 Datsun 260Z.
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, 1971 Citroen DS, 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 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Citroen DS. (151 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1978 Datsun 260Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Citroen DS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Citroen DS | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Citroen | Datsun |
| Model | DS | 260Z |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 98 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.5 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1212 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2581 mm |
