1981 Audi 100 vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 1981 Audi 100 is newer by 3 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 78 more horse power than 1981 Audi 100. (85 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 1981 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Audi 100 weights approximately 10 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, 1981 Audi 100, 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 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Audi 100. (124 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1978 Datsun 260Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Audi 100.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Audi 100 | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Audi | Datsun |
| Model | 100 | 260Z |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 79 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 60 L |
