2009 BMW 120 vs. 1977 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2009 BMW 120 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Datsun 280Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Datsun 280Z would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Datsun 280Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 120 (155 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1977 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1977 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 120 weights approximately 185 kg more than 1977 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, 1977 Datsun 280Z (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 120. (200 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1977 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 120 | 1977 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | BMW | Datsun |
| Model | 120 | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 60 L |
