1986 BMW 316 vs. 1976 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1986 BMW 316 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Datsun 280Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Datsun 280Z would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Datsun 280Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Datsun 280Z (150 HP) has 64 more horse power than 1986 BMW 316. (86 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 1986 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Datsun 280Z weights approximately 130 kg more than 1986 BMW 316. 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, 1976 Datsun 280Z (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW 316. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1976 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW 316 | 1976 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | BMW | Datsun |
| Model | 316 | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1573 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 150 HP |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 79 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
