2003 Caterham 7 vs. 1970 Datsun 240Z
To start off, 2003 Caterham 7 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Datsun 240Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Datsun 240Z would be higher. At 2,393 cc (6 cylinders), 1970 Datsun 240Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Caterham 7 (160 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1970 Datsun 240Z. (151 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1970 Datsun 240Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Datsun 240Z weights approximately 568 kg more than 2003 Caterham 7.
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, 1970 Datsun 240Z (198 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Caterham 7. (176 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 1970 Datsun 240Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Caterham 7. 1970 Datsun 240Z has automatic transmission and 2003 Caterham 7 has manual transmission. 2003 Caterham 7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1970 Datsun 240Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Caterham 7 | 1970 Datsun 240Z | |
| Make | Caterham | Datsun |
| Model | 7 | 240Z |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 151 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 500 kg | 1068 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2300 mm |
