2004 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 2004 Ford Thunderbird 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 3,934 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Thunderbird (249 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 645 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 Ford Thunderbird (388 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 260Z.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Ford Thunderbird | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
Make | Ford | Datsun |
Model | Thunderbird | 260Z |
Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3934 cc | 2565 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 249 HP | 163 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 388 Nm | 213 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 1100 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4135 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2310 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 60 L |