1974 Datsun 260Z vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 28 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 3,224 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E (201 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1974 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1974 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 635 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E (479 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 266 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Datsun 260Z. 2002 Mercedes-Benz E 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. 2002 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Datsun 260Z | 2002 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Datsun | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 260Z | E |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2565 cc | 3224 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 213 Nm | 479 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 243 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8 seconds | 7.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4135 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 80 L |
