2003 Ford Ka vs. 1977 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 2003 Ford Ka is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Datsun 260Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Datsun 260Z would be higher. At 2,565 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Datsun 260Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Datsun 260Z (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 2003 Ford Ka. (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Datsun 260Z weights approximately 138 kg more than 2003 Ford Ka. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 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 1977 Datsun 260Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Ford Ka, 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, 1977 Datsun 260Z (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Ka. (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1977 Datsun 260Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Ka. 1977 Datsun 260Z has automatic transmission and 2003 Ford Ka has manual transmission. 2003 Ford Ka will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1977 Datsun 260Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Ka | 1977 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Ford | Datsun |
| Model | Ka | 260Z |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 167 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 14.1 seconds | 8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 962 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 60 L |
