2012 Nissan Altima vs. 1973 Datsun 240Z

To start off, 2012 Nissan Altima is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Datsun 240Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Datsun 240Z would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Altima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1973 Datsun 240Z. (151 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1973 Datsun 240Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Altima weights approximately 444 kg more than 1973 Datsun 240Z. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1973 Datsun 240Z 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 1973 Datsun 240Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Altima, 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, 2012 Nissan Altima (349 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Datsun 240Z. (198 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Datsun 240Z.

Compare all specifications:

2012 Nissan Altima 1973 Datsun 240Z
Make Nissan Datsun
Model Altima 240Z
Year Released 2012 1973
Body Type Coupe Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3500 cc 2393 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 270 HP 151 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 349 Nm 198 Nm
Torque RPM 4400 RPM 4400 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type 6-speed manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1512 kg 1068 kg
Vehicle Length 4595 mm 4140 mm
Vehicle Width 1796 mm 1630 mm
Wheelbase Size 2675 mm 2300 mm


 

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