2006 Volvo V50 vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 2006 Volvo V50 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, 2006 Volvo V50 (218 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo V50 weights approximately 425 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.
Because 2006 Volvo V50 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Datsun 260Z. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volvo V50 will offer significantly more control. 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 Volvo V50 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 260Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Volvo V50 | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Volvo | Datsun |
| Model | V50 | 260Z |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2522 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 79 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1625 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2581 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.4 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.7 L/100km | 12 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 60 L |
