1979 Datsun 280 vs. 2004 BMW Z4
To start off, 2004 BMW Z4 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Datsun 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Datsun 280 would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW Z4 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW Z4 weights approximately 91 kg more than 1979 Datsun 280. 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 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280. 2004 BMW Z4 has automatic transmission and 1979 Datsun 280 has manual transmission. 1979 Datsun 280 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:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 2004 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Datsun | BMW |
| Model | 280 | Z4 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2753 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1296 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
