1979 Datsun 280 vs. 2012 BMW X3
To start off, 2012 BMW X3 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 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW X3 (256 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW X3 weights approximately 603 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 X3 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 X3 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 X3 (560 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 358 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW X3 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 X3 | |
| Make | Datsun | BMW |
| Model | 280 | X3 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 560 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 84 mm |
| Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4648 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1881 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1675 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2810 mm |
