1973 Datsun Laurel vs. 2012 BMW M3
To start off, 2012 BMW M3 is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Datsun Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Datsun Laurel would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 290 more horse power than 1973 Datsun Laurel. (124 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1973 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Datsun Laurel weights approximately 120 kg more than 2012 BMW M3.
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, 2012 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 229 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Datsun Laurel. (171 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2012 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Datsun Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Datsun Laurel | 2012 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Datsun | BMW |
| Model | Laurel | M3 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 75.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 92 mm |
| Top Speed | 171 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13.9 seconds | 4.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1775 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1803 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1424 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2761 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 63 L |
