1998 BMW 318 vs. 1975 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1998 BMW 318 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Datsun 280Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Datsun 280Z would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1975 Datsun 280Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Datsun 280Z (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1975 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 318 weights approximately 56 kg more than 1975 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, 1975 Datsun 280Z (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1975 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318. 1975 Datsun 280Z has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1975 Datsun 280Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 1975 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | BMW | Datsun |
| Model | 318 | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1975 |
| 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 | 116 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| 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 | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
