1961 Austin A 40 vs. 1977 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 1977 Datsun 260Z is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Austin A 40 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 129 more horse power than 1961 Austin A 40. (34 HP @ 4750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Datsun 260Z weights approximately 340 kg more than 1961 Austin A 40. 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 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin A 40. (68 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1977 Datsun 260Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Austin A 40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Austin A 40 | 1977 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Austin | Datsun |
| Model | A 40 | 260Z |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 62.9 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2130 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 26 L | 60 L |
