1978 Datsun 260Z vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 35 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 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz E (511 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 348 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 845 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz E (700 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 487 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 260Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Datsun 260Z | 2013 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Datsun | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 260Z | E |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2565 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 511 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 213 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8 seconds | 4.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4135 mm | 4913 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 2100 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2874 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 8.4 L/100km | 9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
