2008 BMW 330 vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 2008 BMW 330 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 330 (228 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 330 weights approximately 440 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, 2008 BMW 330 (480 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 267 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 260Z. 1978 Datsun 260Z has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW 330 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW 330 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Datsun 260Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 330 | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | BMW | Datsun |
| Model | 330 | 260Z |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 480 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 60 L |
