2004 BMW 535 vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 2004 BMW 535 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Datsun 260Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Datsun 260Z would be higher. At 3,430 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 535 (268 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 535 weights approximately 480 kg more than 1978 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, 2004 BMW 535 (561 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 348 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 260Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 535 | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | BMW | Datsun |
| Model | 535 | 260Z |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3430 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 561 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.5 seconds | 8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1680 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2581 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 6.3 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.9 L/100km | 12 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
