2008 Saturn Aura vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 2008 Saturn Aura 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 3,564 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Saturn Aura is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Saturn Aura (253 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Saturn Aura should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Saturn Aura weights approximately 185 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, 2008 Saturn Aura, 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, 2008 Saturn Aura (340 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2008 Saturn Aura will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 260Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Saturn Aura | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Saturn | Datsun |
| Model | Aura | 260Z |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3564 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 253 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.1 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.8 L/100km | 12 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 60 L |
