1979 Datsun 280 vs. 2012 BMW 320
To start off, 2012 BMW 320 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 320 (182 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 320 weights approximately 223 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, 2012 BMW 320 (380 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 2012 BMW 320 | |
| Make | Datsun | BMW |
| Model | 280 | 320 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| 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 | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 84 mm |
| Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1495 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4624 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1811 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1429 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2810 mm |
