2002 Audi A8 vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 2002 Audi A8 is newer by 24 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 3,936 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Audi A8 (271 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Audi A8 weights approximately 740 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.
Because 2002 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Datsun 260Z. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Audi A8 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2002 Audi A8 (225 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2002 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 260Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi A8 | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Audi | Datsun |
| Model | A8 | 260Z |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3936 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 271 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 8 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1940 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2581 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 60 L |
