2001 Ariel Atom vs. 1974 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 2001 Ariel Atom is newer by 27 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 54 more horse power than 2001 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 2001 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Datsun 260Z weights approximately 640 kg more than 2001 Ariel Atom. 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, 1974 Datsun 260Z (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1974 Datsun 260Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Ariel Atom. 1974 Datsun 260Z has automatic transmission and 2001 Ariel Atom has manual transmission. 2001 Ariel Atom 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:
| 2001 Ariel Atom | 1974 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Ariel | Datsun |
| Model | Atom | 260Z |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2310 mm |
