1989 Cadillac Fleetwood vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 1989 Cadillac Fleetwood 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 4,467 cc (8 cylinders), 1989 Cadillac Fleetwood is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Datsun 260Z (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1989 Cadillac Fleetwood. (155 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 1989 Cadillac Fleetwood. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Cadillac Fleetwood weights approximately 540 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, 1989 Cadillac Fleetwood, 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 Cadillac Fleetwood (325 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1989 Cadillac Fleetwood will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 260Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Cadillac Fleetwood | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Cadillac | Datsun |
| Model | Fleetwood | 260Z |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4467 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 325 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1640 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5230 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2310 mm |
