2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 29 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, 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser (231 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 207 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 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, 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser, 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, 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser (332 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 260Z. 1978 Datsun 260Z has automatic transmission and 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser has manual transmission. 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Datsun 260Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Chrysler | Datsun |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 260Z |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 231 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.5 seconds | 8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1407 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2581 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 8.7 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.2 L/100km | 12 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 60 L |
