1979 Datsun 280 vs. 2011 BMW M3
To start off, 2011 BMW M3 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Datsun 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Datsun 280 would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 274 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW M3 weights approximately 383 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, 2011 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 198 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 2011 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Datsun | BMW |
| Model | 280 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 75.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 92 mm |
| Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1803 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1424 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2761 mm |
