2001 Opel Astra vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 2001 Opel Astra is newer by 23 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 11 more horse power than 2001 Opel Astra. (152 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 2001 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Opel Astra weights approximately 290 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, 2001 Opel Astra, 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 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Opel Astra. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Datsun 260Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Opel Astra. 1978 Datsun 260Z has automatic transmission and 2001 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2001 Opel Astra 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:
| 2001 Opel Astra | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Opel | Datsun |
| Model | Astra | 260Z |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 152 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 60 L |
