2005 Mazda 6 vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 2005 Mazda 6 is newer by 27 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 3 more horse power than 2005 Mazda 6. (160 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda 6 weights approximately 207 kg more than 1978 Datsun 260Z.
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, 2005 Mazda 6, 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 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 6. (210 Nm). This means 1978 Datsun 260Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda 6.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda 6 | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Mazda | Datsun |
| Model | 6 | 260Z |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2262 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1407 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2581 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.6 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.2 L/100km | 12 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 60 L |
