1986 BMW Z1 vs. 1977 Datsun 280
To start off, 1986 BMW Z1 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Datsun 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Datsun 280 would be higher. At 2,751 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Datsun 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 BMW Z1 (171 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1977 Datsun 280. (125 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 BMW Z1 should accelerate faster than 1977 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Datsun 280 weights approximately 377 kg more than 1986 BMW Z1.
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, 1986 BMW Z1 (222 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Datsun 280. (197 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1986 BMW Z1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW Z1 | 1977 Datsun 280 | |
| Make | BMW | Datsun |
| Model | Z1 | 280 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2751 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 998 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 71 L |
