1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 2011 BMW 325
To start off, 2011 BMW 325 is newer by 32 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 325 (215 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 325 weights approximately 427 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.
Because 2011 BMW 325 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Datsun Laurel. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 BMW 325 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, 2011 BMW 325 (270 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (175 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun Laurel | 2011 BMW 325 | |
| Make | Datsun | BMW |
| Model | Laurel | 325 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.7 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 63 L |
