1989 Buick Riviera vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 1989 Buick Riviera is newer by 11 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 3,800 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Buick Riviera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Buick Riviera (165 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Buick Riviera weights approximately 324 kg more than 1978 Datsun 260Z. 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, 1989 Buick Riviera, 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, 1989 Buick Riviera (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1989 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 260Z. 1989 Buick Riviera 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. 1989 Buick Riviera will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Buick Riviera | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
Make | Buick | Datsun |
Model | Riviera | 260Z |
Year Released | 1989 | 1978 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3800 cc | 2565 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 165 HP | 163 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 285 Nm | 213 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 79 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 8.3:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Top Speed | 193 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1524 kg | 1200 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4450 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1630 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2581 mm |