1984 BMW 318 vs. 1971 Datsun 240Z
To start off, 1984 BMW 318 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Datsun 240Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Datsun 240Z would be higher. At 2,393 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Datsun 240Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Datsun 240Z (151 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1984 BMW 318. (103 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Datsun 240Z should accelerate faster than 1984 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Datsun 240Z weights approximately 68 kg more than 1984 BMW 318. 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, 1971 Datsun 240Z (198 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 BMW 318. (145 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1971 Datsun 240Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 BMW 318. 1971 Datsun 240Z has automatic transmission and 1984 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 1984 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1971 Datsun 240Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 BMW 318 | 1971 Datsun 240Z | |
| Make | BMW | Datsun |
| Model | 318 | 240Z |
| Year Released | 1984 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 151 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 178 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1068 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2300 mm |
