1974 Datsun 260Z vs. 1980 Volvo 343
To start off, 1980 Volvo 343 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Datsun 260Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Datsun 260Z 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 93 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Datsun 260Z weights approximately 210 kg more than 1980 Volvo 343. 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 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 343. (108 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1974 Datsun 260Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 343. 1980 Volvo 343 has automatic transmission and 1974 Datsun 260Z has manual transmission. 1974 Datsun 260Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Volvo 343 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Datsun 260Z | 1980 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Datsun | Volvo |
| Model | 260Z | 343 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2565 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 213 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1400 mm |
