1994 BMW 318 vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 1994 BMW 318 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Datsun 260Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Datsun 260Z would be higher. At 2,565 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Datsun 260Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Datsun 260Z (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1994 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 1994 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 BMW 318 weights approximately 345 kg more than 1978 Datsun 260Z.
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, 1978 Datsun 260Z (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 BMW 318. (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1978 Datsun 260Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 BMW 318. 1978 Datsun 260Z has automatic transmission and 1994 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 1994 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Datsun 260Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 BMW 318 | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | BMW | Datsun |
| Model | 318 | 260Z |
| Year Released | 1994 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
