1974 Datsun 260Z vs. 2001 Pontiac Sunfire
To start off, 2001 Pontiac Sunfire is newer by 27 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 23 more horse power than 2001 Pontiac Sunfire. (140 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 2001 Pontiac Sunfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Datsun 260Z weights approximately 1 kg more than 2001 Pontiac Sunfire. 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, 2001 Pontiac Sunfire, 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 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Pontiac Sunfire. (210 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1974 Datsun 260Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Pontiac Sunfire. 2001 Pontiac Sunfire 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. 2001 Pontiac Sunfire will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Datsun 260Z | 2001 Pontiac Sunfire | |
| Make | Datsun | Pontiac |
| Model | 260Z | Sunfire |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2565 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 213 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1199 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2581 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 54 L |
