2010 Dodge Viper vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 2010 Dodge Viper is newer by 32 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 8,400 cc (10 cylinders), 2010 Dodge Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Dodge Viper (600 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 437 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2010 Dodge Viper should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Dodge Viper weights approximately 467 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, 2010 Dodge Viper (758 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 545 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2010 Dodge Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 260Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 2010 Dodge Viper | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Dodge | Datsun |
| Model | Viper | 260Z |
| Year Released | 2010 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 8400 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 600 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 758 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| 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 | 1567 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1234 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.7 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 18.1 L/100km | 12 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 60 L |
