2005 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1977 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Datsun 260Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Datsun 260Z would be higher. At 2,565 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Datsun 260Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1977 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1977 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 285 kg more than 1977 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, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (222 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Datsun 260Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda RX-8 | 1977 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Mazda | Datsun |
| Model | RX-8 | 260Z |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1311 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.2 L/100km | 12 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 60 L |
