2004 Toyota Corolla vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 2004 Toyota Corolla 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 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 33 more horse power than 2004 Toyota Corolla. (130 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 2004 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Datsun 260Z weights approximately 55 kg more than 2004 Toyota Corolla. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Datsun 260Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Toyota Corolla, 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, 1978 Datsun 260Z (213 Nm) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Toyota Corolla. (176 Nm). This means 1978 Datsun 260Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Toyota Corolla.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Toyota Corolla | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Toyota | Datsun |
| Model | Corolla | 260Z |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1803 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2581 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 6 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 7.5 L/100km | 12 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |
