1971 Fiat 130 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 Fiat 130. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Fiat 130 would be higher. At 3,238 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Fiat 130 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 163 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Fiat 130 weights approximately 470 kg more than 1978 Datsun 260Z.
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, 1971 Fiat 130 (255 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1971 Fiat 130 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 260Z. 1978 Datsun 260Z has automatic transmission and 1971 Fiat 130 has manual transmission. 1971 Fiat 130 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:
| 1971 Fiat 130 | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Fiat | Datsun |
| Model | 130 | 260Z |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3238 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 60 L |
