2008 BMW 320 vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 2008 BMW 320 is newer by 30 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 2,565 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Datsun 260Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 320 (168 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 320 weights approximately 405 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, 1978 Datsun 260Z (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 320. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1978 Datsun 260Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 320. 2008 BMW 320 has automatic transmission and 1978 Datsun 260Z has manual transmission. 1978 Datsun 260Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 320 | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | BMW | Datsun |
| Model | 320 | 260Z |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 2565 cc |
| Horse Power | 168 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 | 10.8:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 224 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.7 seconds | 8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
