1974 Datsun 260Z vs. 2006 Panoz Esperante
To start off, 2006 Panoz Esperante is newer by 32 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 4,589 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Panoz Esperante is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Panoz Esperante (420 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 257 more horse power than 1974 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Panoz Esperante should accelerate faster than 1974 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Panoz Esperante weights approximately 287 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, 2006 Panoz Esperante (570 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 357 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2006 Panoz Esperante will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Datsun 260Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Datsun 260Z | 2006 Panoz Esperante | |
| Make | Datsun | Panoz |
| Model | 260Z | Esperante |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2565 cc | 4589 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 420 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 213 Nm | 570 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1487 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2581 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 8.4 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 59 L |
