1973 BMW 3 vs. 1979 Datsun 280
To start off, 1979 Datsun 280 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 BMW 3 would be higher. At 3,153 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 BMW 3 (203 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 BMW 3 weights approximately 65 kg more than 1979 Datsun 280. 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, 1973 BMW 3 (287 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1973 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 BMW 3 | 1979 Datsun 280 | |
| Make | BMW | Datsun |
| Model | 3 | 280 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3153 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 203 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 287 Nm | 202 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.3 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 79 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2330 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
