2004 Ford Mustang vs. 1974 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 2004 Ford Mustang is newer by 30 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 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Mustang (261 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1974 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1974 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Mustang weights approximately 418 kg more than 1974 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, 2004 Ford Mustang (410 Nm) has 197 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Datsun 260Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Mustang | 1974 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Ford | Datsun |
| Model | Mustang | 260Z |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4605 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 261 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1518 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.4 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.8 L/100km | 12 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 60 L |
