1996 Volvo V70 vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 1996 Volvo V70 is newer by 18 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, 1996 Volvo V70 (193 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo V70 should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo V70 weights approximately 204 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, 1996 Volvo V70, 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 Volvo V70 (275 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo V70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 260Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volvo V70 | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Volvo | Datsun |
| Model | V70 | 260Z |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2383 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 193 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8 seconds | 8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1404 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2581 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
