1986 Renault 21 vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 1986 Renault 21 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 88 more horse power than 1986 Renault 21. (75 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 1986 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Datsun 260Z weights approximately 245 kg more than 1986 Renault 21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Renault 21, 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 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Renault 21. (129 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1978 Datsun 260Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Renault 21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Renault 21 | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Renault | Datsun |
| Model | 21 | 260Z |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1719 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 129 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 79 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 176 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 955 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2581 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
