1995 Opel Astra vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 1995 Opel Astra is newer by 17 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 49 more horse power than 1995 Opel Astra. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 1995 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Opel Astra weights approximately 5 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, 1995 Opel Astra, 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, 1978 Datsun 260Z (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Opel Astra. (169 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Datsun 260Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Opel Astra | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Opel | Datsun |
| Model | Astra | 260Z |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2581 mm |
