2006 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz E. (161 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 372 kg more than 1978 Datsun 260Z.
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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 260Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz E | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Datsun |
| Model | E | 260Z |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.6 seconds | 8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1572 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2581 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 60 L |
