2011 GMC Canyon vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 2011 GMC Canyon is newer by 33 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 2,901 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 GMC Canyon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 GMC Canyon (182 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 GMC Canyon should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 260Z.
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, 1978 Datsun 260Z (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 GMC Canyon. (190 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1978 Datsun 260Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 GMC Canyon. 1978 Datsun 260Z has automatic transmission and 2011 GMC Canyon has manual transmission. 2011 GMC Canyon will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Datsun 260Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 GMC Canyon | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | GMC | Datsun |
| Model | Canyon | 260Z |
| Year Released | 2011 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2901 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1900 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.4 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.1 L/100km | 12 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 60 L |
