1978 Mazda RX-2 vs. 1976 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 1978 Mazda RX-2 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Datsun 260Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Datsun 260Z would be higher. At 2,565 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Datsun 260Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Datsun 260Z (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-2. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Datsun 260Z weights approximately 140 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-2. 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, 1976 Datsun 260Z (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-2. (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1976 Datsun 260Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda RX-2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda RX-2 | 1976 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Mazda | Datsun |
| Model | RX-2 | 260Z |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2290 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2310 mm |
