2009 BMW M3 vs. 1977 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 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 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 264 more horse power than 1977 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1977 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 221 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, 2009 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 179 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Datsun 280Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 1977 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | BMW | Datsun |
| Model | M3 | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
