1997 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1972 Datsun 240Z
To start off, 1997 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Datsun 240Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Datsun 240Z would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Datsun 240Z (151 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Datsun 240Z should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 552 kg more than 1972 Datsun 240Z.
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 Ford Thunderbird (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Datsun 240Z. (198 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Datsun 240Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Thunderbird | 1972 Datsun 240Z | |
| Make | Ford | Datsun |
| Model | Thunderbird | 240Z |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 151 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1068 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2300 mm |
