1998 BMW 323 vs. 1977 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 1998 BMW 323 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Datsun 260Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Datsun 260Z would be higher. At 2,565 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Datsun 260Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 323 (168 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1977 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 1977 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 323 weights approximately 395 kg more than 1977 Datsun 260Z. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 323 (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Datsun 260Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 323 | 1977 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | BMW | Datsun |
| Model | 323 | 260Z |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 79 mm |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.8 seconds | 8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2581 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
