1986 Fiat Croma vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 1986 Fiat Croma is newer by 8 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 9 more horse power than 1986 Fiat Croma. (154 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 1986 Fiat Croma. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Fiat Croma weights approximately 80 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, 1986 Fiat Croma, 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, 1986 Fiat Croma (235 Nm @ 2350 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1986 Fiat Croma will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 260Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Fiat Croma | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Fiat | Datsun |
| Model | Croma | 260Z |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2350 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2310 mm |
