1998 BMW 316 vs. 1976 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1998 BMW 316 is newer by 22 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 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Datsun 280Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Datsun 280Z (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1998 BMW 316. (103 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 316 weights approximately 198 kg more than 1976 Datsun 280Z.
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, 1976 Datsun 280Z (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 316. (165 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1976 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 316. 1998 BMW 316 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. 1998 BMW 316 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 316 | 1976 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | BMW | Datsun |
| Model | 316 | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1398 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
