1990 Mercury Tracer vs. 1974 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 1990 Mercury Tracer is newer by 16 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 2,565 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Datsun 260Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Datsun 260Z (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1990 Mercury Tracer. (127 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 1990 Mercury Tracer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Datsun 260Z weights approximately 100 kg more than 1990 Mercury Tracer. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Datsun 260Z 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 1974 Datsun 260Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Mercury Tracer, 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, 1974 Datsun 260Z (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mercury Tracer. (154 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1974 Datsun 260Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mercury Tracer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Mercury Tracer | 1974 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Mercury | Datsun |
| Model | Tracer | 260Z |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 127 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 154 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2581 mm |
