2005 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2,685 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (167 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 324 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (240 Nm) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 260Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Datsun |
| Model | C | 260Z |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2685 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1524 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2581 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.6 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12.5 L/100km | 12 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 60 L |
