1998 BMW Z3 vs. 1974 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 1998 BMW Z3 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 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW Z3 (240 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1974 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1974 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW Z3 weights approximately 195 kg more than 1974 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 Z3 (320 Nm) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm). This means 1998 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Datsun 260Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW Z3 | 1974 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | BMW | Datsun |
| Model | Z3 | 260Z |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2581 mm |
