1974 Datsun 260Z vs. 2005 BMW 525
To start off, 2005 BMW 525 is newer by 31 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, 1974 Datsun 260Z (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2005 BMW 525. (161 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 2005 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 525 weights approximately 540 kg more than 1974 Datsun 260Z.
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, 2005 BMW 525 (350 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2005 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Datsun 260Z. 2005 BMW 525 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. 2005 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Datsun 260Z | 2005 BMW 525 | |
| Make | Datsun | BMW |
| Model | 260Z | 525 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2565 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 213 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 82.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 215 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8 seconds | 9.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2581 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
