1974 Datsun 260Z vs. 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass is newer by 11 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 74 more horse power than 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Datsun 260Z weights approximately 30 kg more than 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Datsun 260Z is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1974 Datsun 260Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (180 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1974 Datsun 260Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass. 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass 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. 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Datsun 260Z | 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | Datsun | Oldsmobile |
| Model | 260Z | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2565 cc | 2474 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 213 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2581 mm | 2640 mm |
