1992 Buick Regal vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 1992 Buick Regal is newer by 14 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 2,844 cc (6 cylinders), 1992 Buick Regal is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Buick Regal (170 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 Buick Regal should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Buick Regal weights approximately 140 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, 1992 Buick Regal, 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, 1992 Buick Regal (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1992 Buick Regal will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 260Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Buick Regal | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Buick | Datsun |
| Model | Regal | 260Z |
| Year Released | 1992 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2844 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2581 mm |
