1974 Datsun 260Z vs. 1981 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1981 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 7 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 5,012 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Datsun 260Z (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. (145 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 442 kg more than 1974 Datsun 260Z.
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, 1981 Pontiac Firebird (324 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1981 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Datsun 260Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Datsun 260Z | 1981 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Datsun | Pontiac |
| Model | 260Z | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2565 cc | 5012 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 213 Nm | 324 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 88.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 160 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1542 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4135 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 79 L |
