1997 Cadillac Catera vs. 1974 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 1997 Cadillac Catera is newer by 23 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 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Cadillac Catera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Cadillac Catera (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1974 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Cadillac Catera should accelerate faster than 1974 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Cadillac Catera weights approximately 505 kg more than 1974 Datsun 260Z. 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, 1997 Cadillac Catera (260 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1997 Cadillac Catera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Datsun 260Z. 1997 Cadillac Catera has automatic transmission and 1974 Datsun 260Z has manual transmission. 1974 Datsun 260Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Cadillac Catera will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Cadillac Catera | 1974 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Cadillac | Datsun |
| Model | Catera | 260Z |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2962 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2581 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 60 L |
