2008 Volvo S60 vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 2008 Volvo S60 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. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo S60 (207 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S60 weights approximately 434 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 Volvo S60, 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 Volvo S60 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 260Z. 1978 Datsun 260Z has automatic transmission and 2008 Volvo S60 has manual transmission. 2008 Volvo S60 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:
| 2008 Volvo S60 | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Volvo | Datsun |
| Model | S60 | 260Z |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2521 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 207 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.2 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.6 seconds | 8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1534 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
