2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee is newer by 25 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 3,960 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee (195 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee weights approximately 616 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, 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee (312 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 260Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Jeep | Datsun |
| Model | Grand Cherokee | 260Z |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3960 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 195 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 312 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 98.3 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.6 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1716 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2310 mm |
