2003 BMW M3 vs. 1975 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2003 BMW M3 is newer by 28 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 3,168 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 192 more horse power than 1975 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1975 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW M3 weights approximately 81 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, 2003 BMW M3 (350 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2003 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Datsun 280Z. 1975 Datsun 280Z has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1975 Datsun 280Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW M3 | 1975 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | BMW | Datsun |
| Model | M3 | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1975 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
