1990 BMW M3 vs. 1972 Datsun 240Z
To start off, 1990 BMW M3 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Datsun 240Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Datsun 240Z would be higher. At 2,467 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 BMW M3 (238 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1972 Datsun 240Z. (151 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1972 Datsun 240Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 BMW M3 weights approximately 132 kg more than 1972 Datsun 240Z. 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, 1990 BMW M3 (240 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Datsun 240Z. (198 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1990 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Datsun 240Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW M3 | 1972 Datsun 240Z | |
| Make | BMW | Datsun |
| Model | M3 | 240Z |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2467 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 151 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.5 seconds | 8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1068 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2300 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.8 L/100km | 11 L/100km |
