1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 vs. 1970 Datsun 240Z
To start off, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Datsun 240Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Datsun 240Z would be higher. At 3,839 cc (8 cylinders), 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 (204 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1970 Datsun 240Z. (151 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 should accelerate faster than 1970 Datsun 240Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 weights approximately 542 kg more than 1970 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, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 (315 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Datsun 240Z. (198 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Datsun 240Z. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 has automatic transmission and 1970 Datsun 240Z has manual transmission. 1970 Datsun 240Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 | 1970 Datsun 240Z | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Datsun |
| Model | 380 | 240Z |
| Year Released | 1982 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3839 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 151 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1068 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2300 mm |
