1996 BMW 735 vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1996 BMW 735 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Datsun 280Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Datsun 280Z would be higher. At 3,498 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 735 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 735 (232 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 735 should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 735 weights approximately 620 kg more than 1978 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, 1996 BMW 735 (321 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 735 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 280Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 735 | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | BMW | Datsun |
| Model | 735 | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 321 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 79 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1820 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 60 L |
