1974 Datsun 260Z vs. 2007 Mazda 3
To start off, 2007 Mazda 3 is newer by 33 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 55 more horse power than 2007 Mazda 3. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 2007 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda 3 weights approximately 60 kg more than 1974 Datsun 260Z.
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, 2007 Mazda 3, 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, 2007 Mazda 3 (241 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Datsun 260Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Datsun 260Z | 2007 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Datsun | Mazda |
| Model | 260Z | 3 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2565 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 213 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8 seconds | 11.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2581 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
