1978 BMW M1 vs. 1977 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 1978 BMW M1 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Datsun 260Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Datsun 260Z would be higher. At 3,453 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 BMW M1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 BMW M1 (273 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1977 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW M1 should accelerate faster than 1977 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 BMW M1 weights approximately 100 kg more than 1977 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, 1978 BMW M1 (330 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1978 BMW M1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Datsun 260Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW M1 | 1977 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | BMW | Datsun |
| Model | M1 | 260Z |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3453 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 273 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.9 seconds | 8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2581 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 116 L | 60 L |
