1974 Datsun 260Z vs. 2004 BMW Z4
To start off, 2004 BMW Z4 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Datsun 260Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Datsun 260Z would be higher. At 2,565 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Datsun 260Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW Z4 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1974 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1974 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW Z4 weights approximately 96 kg more than 1974 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, 2004 BMW Z4 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2004 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Datsun 260Z. 2004 BMW Z4 has automatic transmission and 1974 Datsun 260Z has manual transmission. 1974 Datsun 260Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 BMW Z4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Datsun 260Z | 2004 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Datsun | BMW |
| Model | 260Z | Z4 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2565 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 213 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1296 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2581 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 8.4 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
