1998 BMW 320 vs. 1972 Datsun 240Z
To start off, 1998 BMW 320 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Datsun 240Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Datsun 240Z would be higher. At 2,393 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Datsun 240Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Datsun 240Z (151 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1998 BMW 320. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Datsun 240Z should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 320 weights approximately 408 kg more than 1972 Datsun 240Z.
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, 1998 BMW 320 (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Datsun 240Z. (198 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Datsun 240Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 320 | 1972 Datsun 240Z | |
| Make | BMW | Datsun |
| Model | 320 | 240Z |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1951 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 151 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 207 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.3 seconds | 8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1476 kg | 1068 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2300 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.9 L/100km | 11 L/100km |
