1971 Datsun 240Z vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Datsun 240Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Datsun 240Z would be higher. At 2,393 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Datsun 240Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK (167 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1971 Datsun 240Z. (151 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1971 Datsun 240Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 597 kg more than 1971 Datsun 240Z. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK (245 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Datsun 240Z. (198 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Datsun 240Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Datsun 240Z | 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Datsun | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 240Z | CLK |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 198 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.7 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1068 kg | 1665 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2720 mm |
