1972 BMW 3 vs. 1976 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 1976 Datsun 260Z is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 3 (201 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1976 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1976 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 BMW 3 weights approximately 274 kg more than 1976 Datsun 260Z. 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, 1972 BMW 3 (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1972 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Datsun 260Z.
Compare all specifications:
1972 BMW 3 | 1976 Datsun 260Z | |
Make | BMW | Datsun |
Model | 3 | 260Z |
Year Released | 1972 | 1976 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2565 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 201 HP | 163 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 271 Nm | 213 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 79 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.3:1 |
Top Speed | 224 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1374 kg | 1100 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4135 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2310 mm |