1999 Mercury Mystique vs. 1974 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 1999 Mercury Mystique is newer by 25 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. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercury Mystique weights approximately 577 kg more than 1974 Datsun 260Z.
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, 1999 Mercury Mystique, 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, 1999 Mercury Mystique (224 Nm) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm). This means 1999 Mercury Mystique will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Datsun 260Z. 1974 Datsun 260Z has automatic transmission and 1999 Mercury Mystique has manual transmission. 1999 Mercury Mystique will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Datsun 260Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mercury Mystique | 1974 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Mercury | Datsun |
| Model | Mystique | 260Z |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2500 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 163 HP |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1777 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2581 mm |
