1974 Datsun 260Z vs. 1987 Ford Taurus
To start off, 1987 Ford Taurus is newer by 13 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 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Datsun 260Z (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1987 Ford Taurus. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Ford Taurus weights approximately 370 kg more than 1974 Datsun 260Z.
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, 1987 Ford Taurus, 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, 1987 Ford Taurus (292 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1987 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Datsun 260Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Datsun 260Z | 1987 Ford Taurus | |
| Make | Datsun | Ford |
| Model | 260Z | Taurus |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2565 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 213 Nm | 292 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4135 mm | 4910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2700 mm |
