2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK (268 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK (510 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 297 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 260Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Datsun |
| Model | SLK | 260Z |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.9 seconds | 8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2581 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.4 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
