2012 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1976 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 36 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 6,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (454 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 291 more horse power than 1976 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1976 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 555 kg more than 1976 Datsun 260Z. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (600 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 387 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 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 1976 Datsun 260Z. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1976 Datsun 260Z has manual transmission. 1976 Datsun 260Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Mercedes-Benz C | 1976 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Datsun |
| Model | C | 260Z |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6200 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 454 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 600 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | 7-speed shiftable automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4724 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1796 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2766 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 60 L |
