1994 Mercury Tracer vs. 1974 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 1994 Mercury Tracer is newer by 20 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 76 more horse power than 1994 Mercury Tracer. (87 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 1994 Mercury Tracer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Datsun 260Z weights approximately 5 kg more than 1994 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, 1994 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 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Mercury Tracer. (146 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1974 Datsun 260Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Mercury Tracer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Mercury Tracer | 1974 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Mercury | Datsun |
| Model | Tracer | 260Z |
| Year Released | 1994 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1857 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2310 mm |
