2006 Ford Focus vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 2006 Ford Focus is newer by 28 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 34 more horse power than 2006 Ford Focus. (129 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 2006 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Focus weights approximately 66 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, 2006 Ford Focus, 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 @ 4400 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Ford Focus. (178 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1978 Datsun 260Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford Focus | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Ford | Datsun |
| Model | Focus | 260Z |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.8 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 201 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.6 seconds | 8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1266 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2581 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
