1974 Datsun 260Z vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 29 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 15 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. (148 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 745 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Datsun 260Z. 2003 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. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Datsun 260Z | 2003 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Datsun | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 260Z | E |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2565 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 213 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 202 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8 seconds | 11.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4135 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
