1974 Citroen GS vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 1978 Datsun 260Z is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Citroen GS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Citroen GS 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 105 more horse power than 1974 Citroen GS. (58 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 1974 Citroen GS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Datsun 260Z weights approximately 258 kg more than 1974 Citroen GS. 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, 1974 Citroen GS, 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 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Citroen GS. (87 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1978 Datsun 260Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Citroen GS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Citroen GS | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Citroen | Datsun |
| Model | GS | 260Z |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1220 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 65.6 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 148 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 942 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2581 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 60 L |
