2003 BMW 520 vs. 1976 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 2003 BMW 520 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Datsun 260Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Datsun 260Z would be higher. At 2,565 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Datsun 260Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 520 (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1976 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1976 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 520 weights approximately 470 kg more than 1976 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, 1976 Datsun 260Z (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 520. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1976 Datsun 260Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 520. 1976 Datsun 260Z has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Datsun 260Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 520 | 1976 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | BMW | Datsun |
| Model | 520 | 260Z |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2170 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 223 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.5 seconds | 8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2581 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.5 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12.8 L/100km | 12 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
