1998 Ford Taurus vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 1998 Ford Taurus 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Taurus (200 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster 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, 1998 Ford Taurus, 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, 1998 Ford Taurus (264 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 260Z. 1998 Ford Taurus has automatic transmission and 1978 Datsun 260Z has manual transmission. 1978 Datsun 260Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Ford Taurus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Taurus | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Ford | Datsun |
| Model | Taurus | 260Z |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3000 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 264 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
