1979 Datsun 280 vs. 2012 BMW X1
To start off, 2012 BMW X1 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 X1 (176 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW X1 should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW X1 weights approximately 293 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.
Because 2012 BMW X1 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Datsun 280. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 BMW X1 will offer significantly more control. 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 X1 (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW X1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280. 2012 BMW X1 has automatic transmission and 1979 Datsun 280 has manual transmission. 1979 Datsun 280 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 BMW X1 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 2012 BMW X1 | |
| Make | Datsun | BMW |
| Model | 280 | X1 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| 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 | 176 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 84 mm |
| Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4454 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1798 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1545 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2760 mm |
