2009 Dodge Caliber vs. 1978 Nissan 260 ZX
To start off, 2009 Dodge Caliber is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Nissan 260 ZX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Nissan 260 ZX would be higher. At 2,565 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Nissan 260 ZX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Caliber (285 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 161 more horse power than 1978 Nissan 260 ZX. (124 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 1978 Nissan 260 ZX.
Because 1978 Nissan 260 ZX 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 Nissan 260 ZX. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Caliber, 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 Dodge Caliber (359 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Nissan 260 ZX. (190 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Caliber will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Nissan 260 ZX.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Caliber | 1978 Nissan 260 ZX | |
| Make | Dodge | Nissan |
| Model | Caliber | 260 ZX |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 285 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 359 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2610 mm |
