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 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW Z3 (191 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 28 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 360 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 (280 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1998 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Datsun 260Z. 1974 Datsun 260Z has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW Z3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Datsun 260Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW Z3 | 1974 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | BMW | Datsun |
| Model | Z3 | 260Z |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 191 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 79 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2310 mm |
