1999 BMW 330 vs. 1975 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1999 BMW 330 is newer by 24 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 2,983 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW 330 (185 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1975 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 1975 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 330 weights approximately 396 kg more than 1975 Datsun 280Z. 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, 1999 BMW 330 (390 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1999 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Datsun 280Z. 1999 BMW 330 has automatic transmission and 1975 Datsun 280Z has manual transmission. 1975 Datsun 280Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 BMW 330 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 330 | 1975 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | BMW | Datsun |
| Model | 330 | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1975 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2983 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 390 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
