2009 Ford Focus vs. 1976 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 2009 Ford Focus is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Datsun 260Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Datsun 260Z would be higher. At 2,565 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Datsun 260Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Focus (296 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 1976 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1976 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Focus weights approximately 180 kg more than 1976 Datsun 260Z. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Datsun 260Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Ford Focus, 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 Ford Focus (410 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 197 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Datsun 260Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Focus | 1976 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Ford | Datsun |
| Model | Focus | 260Z |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2501 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 232 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
