1999 Ford Escort vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 1999 Ford Escort 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 32 more horse power than 1999 Ford Escort. (131 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 1999 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Datsun 260Z weights approximately 76 kg more than 1999 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Ford Escort, 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) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Ford Escort. (178 Nm). This means 1978 Datsun 260Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Ford Escort | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Ford | Datsun |
| Model | Escort | 260Z |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.8 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.9 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1124 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2581 mm |
