1989 Holden Commodore vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 1989 Holden Commodore 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 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Holden Commodore (168 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Holden Commodore should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Holden Commodore weights approximately 210 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Holden Commodore (292 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1989 Holden Commodore will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 260Z. 1978 Datsun 260Z has automatic transmission and 1989 Holden Commodore has manual transmission. 1989 Holden Commodore will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Datsun 260Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Holden Commodore | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Holden | Datsun |
| Model | Commodore | 260Z |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 292 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2310 mm |
