1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 2006 BMW 320
To start off, 2006 BMW 320 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Datsun Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Datsun Laurel would be higher. At 2,393 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 320 (168 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 320 weights approximately 332 kg more than 1979 Datsun Laurel. 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, 2006 BMW 320 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (175 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun Laurel. 2006 BMW 320 has automatic transmission and 1979 Datsun Laurel has manual transmission. 1979 Datsun Laurel will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun Laurel | 2006 BMW 320 | |
| Make | Datsun | BMW |
| Model | Laurel | 320 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.7 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 63 L |
