2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1973 Datsun 240Z
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Datsun 240Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Datsun 240Z would be higher. At 2,393 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Datsun 240Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1973 Datsun 240Z. (151 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1973 Datsun 240Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 360 kg more than 1973 Datsun 240Z. 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, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Datsun 240Z. (198 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Datsun 240Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda RX-8 | 1973 Datsun 240Z | |
| Make | Mazda | Datsun |
| Model | RX-8 | 240Z |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 151 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.4 seconds | 8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1428 kg | 1068 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2300 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 11 L/100km |
