1998 BMW 316 vs. 1974 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 1998 BMW 316 is newer by 24 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 2,565 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Datsun 260Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Datsun 260Z (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1998 BMW 316. (103 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 316 weights approximately 160 kg more than 1974 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, 1974 Datsun 260Z (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 316. (165 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1974 Datsun 260Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 316. 1974 Datsun 260Z has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 316 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:
| 1998 BMW 316 | 1974 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | BMW | Datsun |
| Model | 316 | 260Z |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.4 seconds | 8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2581 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 6.1 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.4 L/100km | 12 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
