2005 Mini Cooper vs. 1976 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 2005 Mini Cooper is newer by 29 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 2,565 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Datsun 260Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Datsun 260Z (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2005 Mini Cooper. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 2005 Mini Cooper. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mini Cooper weights approximately 125 kg more than 1976 Datsun 260Z.
Because 1976 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 1976 Datsun 260Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mini Cooper, 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, 1976 Datsun 260Z (213 Nm) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mini Cooper. (151 Nm). This means 1976 Datsun 260Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mini Cooper.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mini Cooper | 1976 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Mini | Datsun |
| Model | Cooper | 260Z |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1604 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.6:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3640 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 6.7 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 8.7 L/100km | 12 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |
