1986 Ford Escort vs. 1976 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 1986 Ford Escort is newer by 10 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 104 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Datsun 260Z weights approximately 290 kg more than 1986 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Datsun 260Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Ford Escort, 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, 1976 Datsun 260Z (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1976 Datsun 260Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort. 1976 Datsun 260Z has automatic transmission and 1986 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1986 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Datsun 260Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 1976 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Ford | Datsun |
| Model | Escort | 260Z |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1751 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.5:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 151 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2581 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 60 L |
