1998 Porsche 993 vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 1998 Porsche 993 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 3,598 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Porsche 993 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Porsche 993 (395 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 232 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Porsche 993 should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Porsche 993 weights approximately 400 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 1998 Porsche 993 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Datsun 260Z. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Porsche 993 will offer significantly more control. 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 Porsche 993 (542 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 329 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1998 Porsche 993 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 260Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Porsche 993 | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Porsche | Datsun |
| Model | 993 | 260Z |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 3598 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 395 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 542 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 100 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.4 mm | 79 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2280 mm | 2310 mm |
