2004 Chrysler 300 vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 2004 Chrysler 300 is newer by 26 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 6,057 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Chrysler 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chrysler 300 (425 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 262 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chrysler 300 should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chrysler 300 weights approximately 688 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, 2004 Chrysler 300 (569 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 356 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2004 Chrysler 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 260Z. 2004 Chrysler 300 has automatic transmission and 1978 Datsun 260Z has manual transmission. 1978 Datsun 260Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Chrysler 300 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chrysler 300 | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Chrysler | Datsun |
| Model | 300 | 260Z |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6057 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 425 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 569 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 103 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.9 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1888 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3050 mm | 2581 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 60 L |
