2011 Kia Optima vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 2011 Kia Optima 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 2,565 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Datsun 260Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Kia Optima (166 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Kia Optima weights approximately 483 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.
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, 2011 Kia Optima, 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, 1978 Datsun 260Z (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Kia Optima. (209 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1978 Datsun 260Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Kia Optima | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Kia | Datsun |
| Model | Optima | 260Z |
| Year Released | 2011 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2400 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 166 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 209 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1583 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4844 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1831 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1455 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2797 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 5.9 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 6.7 L/100km | 12 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 60 L |
