1972 Ferrari Dino vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 1978 Datsun 260Z is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Ferrari Dino. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Ferrari Dino would be higher. At 2,565 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Datsun 260Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Ferrari Dino (193 HP @ 7600 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Ferrari Dino should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Ferrari Dino weights approximately 125 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, 1972 Ferrari Dino (226 Nm) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm). This means 1972 Ferrari Dino will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 260Z. 1978 Datsun 260Z has automatic transmission and 1972 Ferrari Dino has manual transmission. 1972 Ferrari Dino 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:
| 1972 Ferrari Dino | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Ferrari | Datsun |
| Model | Dino | 260Z |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2418 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 193 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 92.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 59.9 mm | 79 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2310 mm |
