2002 Dodge Stratus vs. 1972 Datsun 240Z
To start off, 2002 Dodge Stratus is newer by 30 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 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Dodge Stratus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Datsun 240Z (151 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2002 Dodge Stratus. (145 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Datsun 240Z should accelerate faster than 2002 Dodge Stratus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Dodge Stratus weights approximately 312 kg more than 1972 Datsun 240Z.
Because 1972 Datsun 240Z 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 1972 Datsun 240Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Dodge Stratus, 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, 2002 Dodge Stratus (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Datsun 240Z. (198 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2002 Dodge Stratus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Datsun 240Z. 2002 Dodge Stratus has automatic transmission and 1972 Datsun 240Z has manual transmission. 1972 Datsun 240Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Dodge Stratus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Dodge Stratus | 1972 Datsun 240Z | |
| Make | Dodge | Datsun |
| Model | Stratus | 240Z |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 151 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1068 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2300 mm |
