1996 BMW M3 vs. 1974 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 1996 BMW M3 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Datsun 260Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Datsun 260Z would be higher. At 3,001 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 163 more horse power than 1974 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1974 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 388 kg more than 1974 Datsun 260Z. 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 M3 (305 Nm) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Datsun 260Z. 1974 Datsun 260Z has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Datsun 260Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW M3 | 1974 Datsun 260Z | |
Make | BMW | Datsun |
Model | M3 | 260Z |
Year Released | 1996 | 1974 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3001 cc | 2565 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 326 HP | 163 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 305 Nm | 213 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 86.2 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85.9 mm | 79 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.3:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1588 kg | 1200 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4450 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2581 mm |