2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1977 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 32 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 2,565 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Datsun 260Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Datsun 260Z (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (158 HP @ 6700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Datsun 260Z weights approximately 45 kg more than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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, 1977 Datsun 260Z (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1977 Datsun 260Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 1977 Datsun 260Z has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1977 Datsun 260Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1977 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Mazda | Datsun |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 260Z |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 188 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 - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.9 seconds | 8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2581 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |
