2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1976 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 33 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, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (164 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1976 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1976 Datsun 260Z.
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, 1976 Datsun 260Z (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (140 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1976 Datsun 260Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1976 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Mazda | Datsun |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 260Z |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2581 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 8.7 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.7 L/100km | 12 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |
