1999 BMW Z9 vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1999 BMW Z9 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Datsun 280Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Datsun 280Z would be higher. At 4,397 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 BMW Z9 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW Z9 (242 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW Z9 should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW Z9 weights approximately 430 kg more than 1978 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 Z9 (560 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 339 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1999 BMW Z9 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 280Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW Z9 | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | BMW | Datsun |
| Model | Z9 | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4397 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 560 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3060 mm | 2304 mm |
