1985 AC Cobra vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 1985 AC Cobra is newer by 7 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 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 AC Cobra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 AC Cobra (223 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Datsun 260Z weights approximately 20 kg more than 1985 AC Cobra.
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, 1985 AC Cobra (407 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 194 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1985 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 260Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 AC Cobra | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | AC | Datsun |
| Model | Cobra | 260Z |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 223 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 407 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 60 L |
