1996 BMW Z3 vs. 1976 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1996 BMW Z3 is newer by 20 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 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (201 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1976 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1976 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Datsun 280Z weights approximately 49 kg more than 1996 BMW Z3.
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 Z3 (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Datsun 280Z. 1996 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 1976 Datsun 280Z has manual transmission. 1976 Datsun 280Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 1976 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | BMW | Datsun |
| Model | Z3 | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 60 L |
