2009 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 31 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, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu (169 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 161 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, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu, 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, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 260Z.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Chevrolet Malibu | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
Make | Chevrolet | Datsun |
Model | Malibu | 260Z |
Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2397 cc | 2565 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 169 HP | 163 HP |
Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 217 Nm | 213 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 8.3:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1261 kg | 1100 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4135 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2310 mm |
Fuel Consumption | 7.8 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption City | 10.7 L/100km | 12 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 60 L |