1992 BMW 540 vs. 1976 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1992 BMW 540 is newer by 16 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 3,980 cc (8 cylinders), 1992 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1976 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 1976 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 BMW 540 weights approximately 346 kg more than 1976 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, 1992 BMW 540 (400 Nm @ 5100 RPM) has 179 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1992 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Datsun 280Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 BMW 540 | 1976 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | BMW | Datsun |
| Model | 540 | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1992 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3980 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5100 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 79 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 60 L |
