2009 Saturn Sky vs. 1976 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 2009 Saturn Sky 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 Saturn Sky (260 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1976 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Saturn Sky should accelerate faster than 1976 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Saturn Sky weights approximately 244 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.
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 Saturn Sky (353 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Saturn Sky will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Datsun 260Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Saturn Sky | 1976 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Saturn | Datsun |
| Model | Sky | 260Z |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 353 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1344 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 8.4 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12.4 L/100km | 12 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 60 L |
