2004 Saturn ION vs. 1976 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 2004 Saturn ION is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Datsun 260Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Datsun 260Z would be higher. At 2,565 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Datsun 260Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Datsun 260Z (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2004 Saturn ION. (138 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 2004 Saturn ION. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Saturn ION weights approximately 50 kg more than 1976 Datsun 260Z.
Because 1976 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 1976 Datsun 260Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Saturn ION, 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, 1976 Datsun 260Z (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Saturn ION. (197 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1976 Datsun 260Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Saturn ION.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Saturn ION | 1976 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Saturn | Datsun |
| Model | ION | 260Z |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2187 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 197 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 79 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2581 mm |
