2002 Chevrolet Camaro vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 2002 Chevrolet Camaro 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 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Chevrolet Camaro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Chevrolet Camaro (190 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Chevrolet Camaro should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Chevrolet Camaro weights approximately 490 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, 2002 Chevrolet Camaro (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2002 Chevrolet Camaro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 260Z. 1978 Datsun 260Z has automatic transmission and 2002 Chevrolet Camaro has manual transmission. 2002 Chevrolet Camaro 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:
| 2002 Chevrolet Camaro | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Datsun |
| Model | Camaro | 260Z |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2310 mm |
