1988 Buick Skylark vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 1988 Buick Skylark is newer by 10 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 15 more horse power than 1988 Buick Skylark. (148 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 1988 Buick Skylark. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Buick Skylark weights approximately 90 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, 1988 Buick Skylark, 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, 1988 Buick Skylark (217 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1988 Buick Skylark will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 260Z. 1988 Buick Skylark has automatic transmission and 1978 Datsun 260Z has manual transmission. 1978 Datsun 260Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 Buick Skylark will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Buick Skylark | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Buick | Datsun |
| Model | Skylark | 260Z |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2310 mm |
