1974 Datsun 260Z vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1997 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 23 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 3,785 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (198 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1974 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1974 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 405 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, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1997 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 | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Datsun | Pontiac |
| Model | 260Z | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2565 cc | 3785 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 198 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 213 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| 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 | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4135 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 58 L |
