1988 BMW 535 vs. 1977 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1988 BMW 535 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Datsun 280Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Datsun 280Z would be higher. At 3,430 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW 535 (211 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1977 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 1977 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 535 weights approximately 326 kg more than 1977 Datsun 280Z. 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, 1988 BMW 535 (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1988 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Datsun 280Z. 1988 BMW 535 has automatic transmission and 1977 Datsun 280Z has manual transmission. 1977 Datsun 280Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 BMW 535 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 535 | 1977 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | BMW | Datsun |
| Model | 535 | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3430 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 211 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
