1974 Datsun 260Z vs. 2009 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2009 Ford Mustang 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 Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Mustang (210 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1974 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1974 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Datsun 260Z weights approximately 134 kg more than 2009 Ford Mustang.
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 Mustang (325 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Datsun 260Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Datsun 260Z | 2009 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Datsun | Ford |
| Model | 260Z | Mustang |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| 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 | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 213 Nm | 325 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 966 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4135 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 8.4 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 61 L |
