2008 BMW 330 vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
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 280Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Datsun 280Z would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 330 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 330 weights approximately 274 kg more than 1978 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, 2008 BMW 330 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 280Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 330 | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | BMW | Datsun |
| Model | 330 | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1578 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
