1971 BMW 3 vs. 1972 Datsun 240Z
To start off, 1972 Datsun 240Z is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1972 Datsun 240Z. (151 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1972 Datsun 240Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 312 kg more than 1972 Datsun 240Z. 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, 1971 BMW 3 (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Datsun 240Z. (198 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Datsun 240Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 1972 Datsun 240Z | |
| Make | BMW | Datsun |
| Model | 3 | 240Z |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 151 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1068 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2300 mm |
