Japan vs Germany — 1970 vs 1972
| 240Z S30 | 911 Carrera RS 2.7 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 151 hp | 210 hp |
| Torque | 146 lb-ft | 188 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,393 cc | 2,687 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 8.0 sec | 5.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 125 mph | 152 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 16.1 sec | 14.1 sec |
| Weight | 2,348 lbs | 2,150 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,305 mm | 2,271 mm |
| Length | 4,115 mm | 4,147 mm |
| Units Produced | 156,076 | 1,580 |
| Original MSRP | $3,526 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $125,000 | $1,500,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 6/10 | 10/10 |
The 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1970 Datsun 240Z S30 counters with better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
When Japan engineering meets Germany craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1970 Datsun 240Z S30 and 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. The 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 210 hp compared to 151 hp, a 59-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Datsun 240Z uses a Inline-6 SOHC displacing 2,393 cc, while the Porsche 911 relies on a Flat-6 SOHC with 2,687 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 edges ahead at 5.5 seconds versus 8.0 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,580 units built, the 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 is considerably scarcer than the Datsun 240Z's 156,076 examples. On the collector market, the 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 commands a significant premium over the 1970 Datsun 240Z S30, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.