1974 Datsun 260Z vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLS
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLS is newer by 39 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 6,300 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLS (575 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 412 more horse power than 1974 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLS should accelerate faster than 1974 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLS weights approximately 564 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLS (649 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 436 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Datsun 260Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Datsun 260Z | 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLS | |
| Make | Datsun | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 260Z | SLS |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2565 cc | 6300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 575 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 213 Nm | 649 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 102 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 330 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8 seconds | 4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 4-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1664 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4135 mm | 4638 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 2075 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1261 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 8.4 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12 L/100km | 16.8 L/100km |
