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 76 more horse power than 1999 Citroen Xantia. (87 HP @ 4000 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 136 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 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Citroen Xantia. (200 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 1978 Datsun 260Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Citroen Xantia.
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 | 1997 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2250 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1336 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2581 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 60 L |
