1990 Buick Electra vs. 1971 Datsun 240Z

To start off, 1990 Buick Electra is newer by 19 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 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 Buick Electra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Buick Electra (163 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1971 Datsun 240Z. (151 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 Buick Electra should accelerate faster than 1971 Datsun 240Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Buick Electra weights approximately 507 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.

Because 1971 Datsun 240Z is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1971 Datsun 240Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Buick Electra, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1990 Buick Electra (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Datsun 240Z. (198 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1990 Buick Electra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Datsun 240Z. 1990 Buick Electra has automatic transmission and 1971 Datsun 240Z has manual transmission. 1971 Datsun 240Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1990 Buick Electra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1990 Buick Electra 1971 Datsun 240Z
Make Buick Datsun
Model Electra 240Z
Year Released 1990 1971
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3791 cc 2393 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 163 HP 151 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 285 Nm 198 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 4400 RPM
Engine Bore Size 96.5 mm 83 mm
Engine Stroke Size 86.4 mm 73.7 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Vehicle Weight 1575 kg 1068 kg
Vehicle Length 4990 mm 4140 mm
Vehicle Width 1840 mm 1630 mm
Wheelbase Size 2820 mm 2300 mm