2008 Ford Fiesta vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 2008 Ford Fiesta is newer by 30 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. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Fiesta weights approximately 52 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, 2008 Ford Fiesta, 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 67 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Fiesta. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Datsun 260Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Fiesta | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Ford | Datsun |
| Model | Fiesta | 260Z |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 163 HP |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.8 seconds | 8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1152 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 60 L |
