2012 Lexus IS vs. 1977 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 2012 Lexus IS is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Datsun 260Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Datsun 260Z would be higher. At 2,565 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Datsun 260Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus IS (204 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1977 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1977 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus IS weights approximately 642 kg more than 1977 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, 2012 Lexus IS (251 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Datsun 260Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Lexus IS | 1977 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Lexus | Datsun |
| Model | IS | 260Z |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2500 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1742 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4633 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1801 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1415 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2731 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 | 65 L | 60 L |
