1974 Datsun 260Z vs. 1956 Ford Zodiac
To start off, 1974 Datsun 260Z is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Ford Zodiac. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Ford Zodiac would be higher. At 2,565 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Datsun 260Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Datsun 260Z (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1956 Ford Zodiac. (76 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 1956 Ford Zodiac. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Datsun 260Z weights approximately 8 kg more than 1956 Ford Zodiac. 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, 1974 Datsun 260Z (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Ford Zodiac. (187 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1974 Datsun 260Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Ford Zodiac.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Datsun 260Z | 1956 Ford Zodiac | |
| Make | Datsun | Ford |
| Model | 260Z | Zodiac |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2565 cc | 2552 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 76 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 213 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 136 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1192 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2581 mm | 2720 mm |
