1979 Datsun 280 vs. 2012 BMW 120
To start off, 2012 BMW 120 is newer by 33 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 2,751 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 120 (170 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 120 weights approximately 233 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, 1979 Datsun 280 (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 BMW 120. (190 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 BMW 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 2012 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Datsun | BMW |
| Model | 280 | 120 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1748 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1411 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2660 mm |
