2011 BMW 550 vs. 1976 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2011 BMW 550 is newer by 35 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 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 550 (400 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 250 more horse power than 1976 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1976 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 550 weights approximately 850 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.
Because 2011 BMW 550 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1976 Datsun 280Z. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 BMW 550 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2011 BMW 550 (609 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 388 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Datsun 280Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 BMW 550 | 1976 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | BMW | Datsun |
| Model | 550 | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2011 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4400 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 400 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 609 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | AWD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2050 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4905 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1859 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2969 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
