1972 BMW 520 vs. 1973 Datsun 240Z
To start off, 1973 Datsun 240Z is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,393 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Datsun 240Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Datsun 240Z (151 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1972 BMW 520. (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Datsun 240Z should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 BMW 520 weights approximately 377 kg more than 1973 Datsun 240Z.
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, 1973 Datsun 240Z (198 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1973 Datsun 240Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 520 | 1973 Datsun 240Z | |
| Make | BMW | Datsun |
| Model | 520 | 240Z |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 151 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.6 seconds | 8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1068 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2300 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.2 L/100km | 11 L/100km |
