1978 BMW 320 vs. 2012 Infiniti QX56
To start off, 2012 Infiniti QX56 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 320 would be higher. At 5,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Infiniti QX56 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 BMW 320 (641 HP @ 9000 RPM) has 241 more horse power than 2012 Infiniti QX56. (400 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 2012 Infiniti QX56. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Infiniti QX56 weights approximately 1698 kg more than 1978 BMW 320.
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. 2012 Infiniti QX56 has automatic transmission and 1978 BMW 320 has manual transmission. 1978 BMW 320 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Infiniti QX56 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW 320 | 2012 Infiniti QX56 | |
| Make | BMW | Infiniti |
| Model | 320 | QX56 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 5600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 641 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 9000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 2538 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 5291 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 2029 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1925 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 3076 mm |
