2009 Chrysler 300 vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 2009 Chrysler 300 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 2,736 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Chrysler 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chrysler 300 (178 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler 300 should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler 300 weights approximately 773 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.
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, 2009 Chrysler 300 (258 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Chrysler 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 260Z. 2009 Chrysler 300 has automatic transmission and 1978 Datsun 260Z has manual transmission. 1978 Datsun 260Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Chrysler 300 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chrysler 300 | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Chrysler | Datsun |
| Model | 300 | 260Z |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2736 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.5 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.9:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1873 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3050 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.2 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.2 L/100km | 12 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 60 L |
