1999 Oldsmobile Cutlass vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 1999 Oldsmobile Cutlass 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 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Datsun 260Z (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1999 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (150 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 1999 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 300 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 Oldsmobile Cutlass, 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, 1999 Oldsmobile Cutlass (249 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1999 Oldsmobile Cutlass will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 260Z. 1999 Oldsmobile Cutlass has automatic transmission and 1978 Datsun 260Z has manual transmission. 1978 Datsun 260Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Oldsmobile Cutlass will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Oldsmobile Cutlass | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Oldsmobile | Datsun |
| Model | Cutlass | 260Z |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 249 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 60 L |
