1986 Caterham 1700 vs. 1979 Nissan 260 ZX
To start off, 1986 Caterham 1700 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Nissan 260 ZX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Nissan 260 ZX would be higher. At 2,565 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Nissan 260 ZX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Caterham 1700 (168 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1979 Nissan 260 ZX. (124 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Caterham 1700 should accelerate faster than 1979 Nissan 260 ZX.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Caterham 1700 | 1979 Nissan 260 ZX | |
| Make | Caterham | Nissan |
| Model | 1700 | 260 ZX |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1692 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3390 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1050 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2610 mm |
