1974 Datsun 260Z vs. 2007 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2007 Mazda RX-8 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, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1974 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1974 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 325 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, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda RX-8 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 RX-8 | |
| Make | Datsun | Mazda |
| Model | 260Z | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2565 cc | 1306 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 213 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 223 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8 seconds | 7.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4135 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 61 L |
