2012 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1974 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 38 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (168 HP @ 3000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1974 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1974 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (400 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 187 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Datsun 260Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Mercedes-Benz C | 1974 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Datsun |
| Model | C | 260Z |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2143 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 16.2:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 218 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | 7-speed shiftable automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4606 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1459 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 60 L |
