2010 Nissan Altima vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 2010 Nissan Altima 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 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 5 more horse power than 2010 Nissan Altima. (158 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 2010 Nissan Altima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Nissan Altima weights approximately 374 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, 2010 Nissan Altima, 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, 2010 Nissan Altima (219 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2010 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 260Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 2010 Nissan Altima | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Nissan | Datsun |
| Model | Altima | 260Z |
| Year Released | 2010 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2500 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 219 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | CVT | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1574 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4844 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1796 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1481 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2776 mm | 2581 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.1 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 6.7 L/100km | 12 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 60 L |
