2004 Mercury Monterey vs. 1977 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 2004 Mercury Monterey is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Datsun 260Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Datsun 260Z would be higher. At 4,194 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercury Monterey is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercury Monterey (198 HP @ 4250 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1977 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercury Monterey should accelerate faster than 1977 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercury Monterey weights approximately 811 kg more than 1977 Datsun 260Z. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 Datsun 260Z 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 1977 Datsun 260Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mercury Monterey, 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, 2004 Mercury Monterey (359 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2004 Mercury Monterey will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Datsun 260Z. 2004 Mercury Monterey has automatic transmission and 1977 Datsun 260Z has manual transmission. 1977 Datsun 260Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercury Monterey will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercury Monterey | 1977 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Mercury | Datsun |
| Model | Monterey | 260Z |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4194 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 198 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 359 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2011 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5570 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3210 mm | 2581 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.2 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 12 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 98 L | 60 L |
