Japan vs Germany — 1974 vs 1970
| 260Z 2+2 | 280 SL Pagoda | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 162 hp | 180 hp |
| Torque | 160 lb-ft | 177 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,565 cc | 2,778 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 9.2 sec | 9.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 120 mph | 121 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.0 sec | 17.5 sec |
| Weight | 2,557 lbs | 3,175 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,605 mm | 2,400 mm |
| Length | 4,425 mm | 4,285 mm |
| Units Produced | 166,461 | 23,885 |
| Original MSRP | $5,499 | $10,200 |
| Value (Excellent) | $55,000 | $175,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 4/10 | 6/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1974 Datsun 260Z 2+2 brings quicker acceleration, lighter weight, better value to the table, and the 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280 SL Pagoda answers with more power, higher top speed, greater rarity. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
The rivalry between Japan and Germany automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1974 Datsun 260Z 2+2 versus 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280 SL Pagoda is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1974 Datsun 260Z 2+2 producing 162 hp and the 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280 SL Pagoda delivering 180 hp. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1974 Datsun 260Z 2+2 edges ahead at 9.2 seconds versus 9.5 seconds. The Datsun 260Z carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 618 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 23,885 units built, the 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280 SL Pagoda is considerably scarcer than the Datsun 260Z's 166,461 examples. On the collector market, the 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280 SL Pagoda commands a significant premium over the 1974 Datsun 260Z 2+2, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280 SL Pagoda rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.