1978 Datsun 260Z vs. 2012 Honda Civic
To start off, 2012 Honda Civic is newer by 34 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 2,565 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Datsun 260Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Datsun 260Z (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2012 Honda Civic. (140 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 2012 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Honda Civic weights approximately 86 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, 2012 Honda Civic, 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 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Honda Civic. (173 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1978 Datsun 260Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Datsun 260Z | 2012 Honda Civic | |
| Make | Datsun | Honda |
| Model | 260Z | Civic |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2565 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 213 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1186 kg |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 8.4 L/100km | 6.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 50 L |
