1959 BMW 507 vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1978 Datsun 280Z is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 BMW 507. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 BMW 507 would be higher. At 3,169 cc (8 cylinders), 1959 BMW 507 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Datsun 280Z (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1959 BMW 507. (148 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 1959 BMW 507. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 BMW 507 weights approximately 50 kg more than 1978 Datsun 280Z.
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, 1978 Datsun 280Z (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 BMW 507. (220 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1978 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 BMW 507. 1978 Datsun 280Z has automatic transmission and 1959 BMW 507 has manual transmission. 1959 BMW 507 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Datsun 280Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 BMW 507 | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | BMW | Datsun |
| Model | 507 | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 60 L |
