2004 Caterham 7 vs. 1975 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 2004 Caterham 7 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Datsun 260Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Datsun 260Z would be higher. At 2,565 cc (6 cylinders), 1975 Datsun 260Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Caterham 7 (200 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1975 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1975 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Datsun 260Z weights approximately 660 kg more than 2004 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, 2004 Caterham 7 (224 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2004 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Datsun 260Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Caterham 7 | 1975 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Caterham | Datsun |
| Model | 7 | 260Z |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.6 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 79 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 540 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3310 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2581 mm |
