2012 BMW X5 vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2012 BMW X5 is newer by 34 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW X5 (265 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW X5 weights approximately 1051 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.
Because 2012 BMW X5 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Datsun 280Z. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 BMW X5 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, 2012 BMW X5 (576 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 355 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2012 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 280Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 BMW X5 | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | BMW | Datsun |
| Model | X5 | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1978 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3000 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 265 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 576 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | AWD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed shiftable automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2355 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4854 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1933 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2933 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 60 L |
