1998 Ford Focus vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 1998 Ford Focus is newer by 20 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 35 more horse power than 1998 Ford Focus. (128 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Datsun 260Z weights approximately 26 kg more than 1998 Ford Focus. 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, 1998 Ford Focus, 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 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (175 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1978 Datsun 260Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Focus. 1978 Datsun 260Z has automatic transmission and 1998 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 1998 Ford Focus 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:
| 1998 Ford Focus | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Ford | Datsun |
| Model | Focus | 260Z |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1388 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.5 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 171 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 14.4 seconds | 8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1074 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
