2003 Lexus IS vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 2003 Lexus IS 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 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 10 more horse power than 2003 Lexus IS. (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 2003 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lexus IS weights approximately 200 kg more than 1978 Datsun 260Z.
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, 1978 Datsun 260Z (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Lexus IS. (196 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1978 Datsun 260Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Lexus IS. 1978 Datsun 260Z has automatic transmission and 2003 Lexus IS has manual transmission. 2003 Lexus IS 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:
| 2003 Lexus IS | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Lexus | Datsun |
| Model | IS | 260Z |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 79 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2581 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
