1974 Datsun 260Z vs. 1996 Toyota MR2
To start off, 1996 Toyota MR2 is newer by 22 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, 1996 Toyota MR2 (173 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1974 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 1974 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 35 kg more than 1974 Datsun 260Z. 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 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Toyota MR2. (186 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1974 Datsun 260Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Toyota MR2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Datsun 260Z | 1996 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Datsun | Toyota |
| Model | 260Z | MR2 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2565 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 213 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1235 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2581 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
