2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 22 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 64 more horse power than 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (99 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 685 kg more than 1978 Datsun 260Z.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata (230 Nm) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm). This means 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 260Z. 1978 Datsun 260Z has automatic transmission and 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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:
2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
Make | Mazda | Datsun |
Model | MX-5 Miata | 260Z |
Year Released | 2000 | 1978 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1839 cc | 2565 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 99 HP | 163 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 230 Nm | 213 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.3:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1100 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4135 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2310 mm |