1998 Lexus ES vs. 1979 Nissan 260 ZX
To start off, 1998 Lexus ES is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Nissan 260 ZX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Nissan 260 ZX would be higher. At 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Lexus ES is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Lexus ES (218 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1979 Nissan 260 ZX. (124 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Lexus ES should accelerate faster than 1979 Nissan 260 ZX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Lexus ES weights approximately 370 kg more than 1979 Nissan 260 ZX. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Nissan 260 ZX 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 1979 Nissan 260 ZX. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Lexus ES, 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 Lexus ES (304 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Nissan 260 ZX. (189 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Lexus ES will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Nissan 260 ZX. 1998 Lexus ES has automatic transmission and 1979 Nissan 260 ZX has manual transmission. 1979 Nissan 260 ZX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Lexus ES will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Lexus ES | 1979 Nissan 260 ZX | |
| Make | Lexus | Nissan |
| Model | ES | 260 ZX |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2997 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 189 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2610 mm |
