2006 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1974 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 32 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 2,565 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Datsun 260Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Datsun 260Z (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (134 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 495 kg more than 1974 Datsun 260Z.
Because 1974 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 1974 Datsun 260Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 1974 Datsun 260Z (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (185 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1974 Datsun 260Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz A | 1974 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Datsun |
| Model | A | 260Z |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2034 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 195 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.8 seconds | 8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1695 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2581 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 60 L |
