1999 Citroen Xantia vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 1999 Citroen Xantia is newer by 21 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 30 more horse power than 1999 Citroen Xantia. (133 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 1999 Citroen Xantia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Citroen Xantia weights approximately 220 kg more 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, 1999 Citroen Xantia, 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 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Citroen Xantia. (187 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1978 Datsun 260Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Citroen Xantia. 1978 Datsun 260Z has automatic transmission and 1999 Citroen Xantia has manual transmission. 1999 Citroen Xantia 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:
| 1999 Citroen Xantia | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Citroen | Datsun |
| Model | Xantia | 260Z |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 133 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 79 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2310 mm |
