Japan vs Japan — 1974 vs 1965
| 260Z 2+2 | Sports 800 UP15 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 162 hp | 45 hp |
| Torque | 160 lb-ft | 42 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,565 cc | 790 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 9.2 sec | 19.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 120 mph | 96 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.0 sec | 21.2 sec |
| Weight | 2,557 lbs | 1,279 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,605 mm | 2,000 mm |
| Length | 4,425 mm | 3,580 mm |
| Units Produced | 166,461 | 3,131 |
| Original MSRP | $5,499 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $55,000 | $120,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 4/10 | 9/10 |
This matchup is remarkably close. The 1974 Datsun 260Z 2+2 offers more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed, while the 1965 Toyota Sports 800 UP15 counters with lighter weight, greater rarity, stronger collectibility. Neither holds a decisive advantage, making this a true enthusiast's dilemma. Your choice ultimately depends on which driving philosophy resonates more with you.
The 1974 Datsun 260Z 2+2 and 1965 Toyota Sports 800 UP15 stand as two of the most notable Sports Car cars from Muscle era. Both emerged during a period of intense competition, and choosing between them remains a passionate debate among collectors. The 1974 Datsun 260Z 2+2 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 162 hp compared to 45 hp, a 117-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Datsun 260Z uses a Inline-6 SOHC displacing 2,565 cc, while the Toyota Sports 800 relies on a Flat-2 OHV with 790 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1974 Datsun 260Z 2+2 edges ahead at 9.2 seconds versus 19.5 seconds. The Toyota Sports 800 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1278 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 3,131 units built, the 1965 Toyota Sports 800 UP15 is considerably scarcer than the Datsun 260Z's 166,461 examples. On the collector market, the 1965 Toyota Sports 800 UP15 commands a significant premium over the 1974 Datsun 260Z 2+2, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.