2009 BMW 525 vs. 1976 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2009 BMW 525 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Datsun 280Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Datsun 280Z would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Datsun 280Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 525 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1976 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1976 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 525 weights approximately 295 kg more than 1976 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, 2009 BMW 525 (250 Nm @ 2900 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Datsun 280Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 525 | 1976 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | BMW | Datsun |
| Model | 525 | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
