1972 Datsun 240Z vs. 1977 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 1977 Datsun 260Z is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Datsun 240Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Datsun 240Z would be higher. At 2,565 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Datsun 260Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Datsun 260Z (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1972 Datsun 240Z. (151 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 1972 Datsun 240Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Datsun 260Z weights approximately 32 kg more than 1972 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, 1977 Datsun 260Z (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Datsun 240Z. (198 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1977 Datsun 260Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Datsun 240Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Datsun 240Z | 1977 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Datsun | Datsun |
| Model | 240Z | 260Z |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 198 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.7 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 201 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8 seconds | 8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1068 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2310 mm |
