2002 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1976 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 2002 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Datsun 260Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Datsun 260Z would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 2002 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (238 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1976 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1976 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 238 kg more than 1976 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, 1976 Datsun 260Z (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1976 Datsun 260Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda RX-8. 1976 Datsun 260Z has automatic transmission and 2002 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2002 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Datsun 260Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mazda RX-8 | 1976 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Mazda | Datsun |
| Model | RX-8 | 260Z |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1338 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 60 L |
