1974 Datsun 260Z vs. 2011 BMW 120
To start off, 2011 BMW 120 is newer by 37 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, 2011 BMW 120 (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1974 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1974 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 120 weights approximately 340 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, 2011 BMW 120 (351 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Datsun 260Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Datsun 260Z | 2011 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Datsun | BMW |
| Model | 260Z | 120 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2565 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 213 Nm | 351 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 228 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8 seconds | 7.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4135 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 51 L |
