2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser 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, 1978 Datsun 260Z (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (114 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 241 kg more than 1978 Datsun 260Z.
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 Chrysler PT Cruiser, 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, 1978 Datsun 260Z (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (157 Nm @ 4550 RPM). This means 1978 Datsun 260Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. 1978 Datsun 260Z has automatic transmission and 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser has manual transmission. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser 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:
| 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Chrysler | Datsun |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 260Z |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4550 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 176 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13.5 seconds | 8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1441 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2581 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 60 L |
