1976 Holden Sunbird vs. 1971 Datsun 240Z
To start off, 1976 Holden Sunbird is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Datsun 240Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Datsun 240Z would be higher. At 5,044 cc (8 cylinders), 1976 Holden Sunbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Holden Sunbird (247 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1971 Datsun 240Z. (151 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Holden Sunbird should accelerate faster than 1971 Datsun 240Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Holden Sunbird weights approximately 212 kg more than 1971 Datsun 240Z. 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, 1976 Holden Sunbird (436 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 238 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Datsun 240Z. (198 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1976 Holden Sunbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Datsun 240Z. 1971 Datsun 240Z has automatic transmission and 1976 Holden Sunbird has manual transmission. 1976 Holden Sunbird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1971 Datsun 240Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Holden Sunbird | 1971 Datsun 240Z | |
| Make | Holden | Datsun |
| Model | Sunbird | 240Z |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5044 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 151 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 436 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1068 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2300 mm |
