1956 Maserati 350S vs. 1974 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 1974 Datsun 260Z is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Maserati 350S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Maserati 350S would be higher. At 3,483 cc (6 cylinders), 1956 Maserati 350S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1956 Maserati 350S (321 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 1974 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1956 Maserati 350S should accelerate faster than 1974 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Datsun 260Z weights approximately 430 kg more than 1956 Maserati 350S.
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. 1974 Datsun 260Z has automatic transmission and 1956 Maserati 350S has manual transmission. 1956 Maserati 350S will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Datsun 260Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Maserati 350S | 1974 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Maserati | Datsun |
| Model | 350S | 260Z |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3483 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 321 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 770 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 990 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2581 mm |
