1978 Datsun 260Z vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Datsun 260Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Datsun 260Z would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (187 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 615 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (400 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 187 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 260Z. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1978 Datsun 260Z has manual transmission. 1978 Datsun 260Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Datsun 260Z | 2008 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Datsun | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 260Z | E |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2565 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 213 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 17.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 241 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8 seconds | 8.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4135 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 65 L |
