1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 2012 BMW 550
To start off, 2012 BMW 550 is newer by 33 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 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 550 (400 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 287 more horse power than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 550 weights approximately 865 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 2012 BMW 550 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Datsun Laurel. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 BMW 550 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 550 (609 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 433 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (176 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun Laurel | 2012 BMW 550 | |
| Make | Datsun | BMW |
| Model | Laurel | 550 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 609 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 2050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4899 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1464 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2968 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
