2002 Daihatsu Copen vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 2002 Daihatsu Copen 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 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 101 more horse power than 2002 Daihatsu Copen. (62 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 2002 Daihatsu Copen. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Datsun 260Z weights approximately 270 kg more than 2002 Daihatsu Copen. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2002 Daihatsu Copen, 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 103 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Daihatsu Copen. (110 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1978 Datsun 260Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Daihatsu Copen. 1978 Datsun 260Z has automatic transmission and 2002 Daihatsu Copen has manual transmission. 2002 Daihatsu Copen 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 Daihatsu Copen | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Datsun |
| Model | Copen | 260Z |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 659 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 830 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 60 L |
