1974 Datsun 260Z vs. 2009 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer is newer by 35 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 4,009 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Explorer (207 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1974 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1974 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Datsun 260Z weights approximately 228 kg more than 2009 Ford Explorer.
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, 2009 Ford Explorer (254 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Datsun 260Z. 2009 Ford Explorer 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. 2009 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Datsun 260Z | 2009 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Datsun | Ford |
| Model | 260Z | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2565 cc | 4009 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 207 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 213 Nm | 254 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 4.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 972 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 5350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2581 mm | 3320 mm |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12 L/100km | 16.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 85 L |
