2001 Pontiac Firebird vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 2001 Pontiac Firebird 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 5,665 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Pontiac Firebird (325 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 328 kg more than 1978 Datsun 260Z. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2001 Pontiac Firebird (475 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 262 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2001 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 260Z. 2001 Pontiac Firebird 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. 2001 Pontiac Firebird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2001 Pontiac Firebird | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
Make | Pontiac | Datsun |
Model | Firebird | 260Z |
Year Released | 2001 | 1978 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5665 cc | 2565 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 325 HP | 163 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 475 Nm | 213 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 99 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 79 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 8.3:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1528 kg | 1200 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4450 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2581 mm |