1996 Honda Prelude vs. 1977 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 1996 Honda Prelude is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Datsun 260Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Datsun 260Z would be higher. At 2,565 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Datsun 260Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Honda Prelude (190 HP) has 27 more horse power than 1977 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Honda Prelude should accelerate faster than 1977 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Honda Prelude weights approximately 230 kg more than 1977 Datsun 260Z. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 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 1977 Datsun 260Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Honda Prelude, 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, 1996 Honda Prelude (214 Nm) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm). This means 1996 Honda Prelude will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Datsun 260Z. 1977 Datsun 260Z has automatic transmission and 1996 Honda Prelude has manual transmission. 1996 Honda Prelude will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1977 Datsun 260Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Honda Prelude | 1977 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Honda | Datsun |
| Model | Prelude | 260Z |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2258 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 163 HP |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2310 mm |
