1974 Datsun 260Z vs. 1998 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1998 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 24 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 3,353 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Datsun 260Z (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1998 Pontiac Firebird. (147 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 1998 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 428 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, 1998 Pontiac Firebird (257 Nm @ 3150 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1998 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 | 1998 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Datsun | Pontiac |
| Model | 260Z | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2565 cc | 3353 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 147 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 213 Nm | 257 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3150 RPM |
| 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 | 1528 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 |
