2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 265 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (230 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 260Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Datsun |
| Model | SLK | 260Z |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 163 HP |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 223 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 60 L |
