1981 Nissan Patrol vs. 2008 BMW 320
To start off, 2008 BMW 320 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Patrol. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Patrol would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Nissan Patrol is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 320 (168 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Patrol. (94 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Patrol. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Nissan Patrol weights approximately 455 kg more than 2008 BMW 320.
Because 1981 Nissan Patrol is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 BMW 320. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Nissan Patrol 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, 1981 Nissan Patrol (215 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 320. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1981 Nissan Patrol will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 320. 2008 BMW 320 has automatic transmission and 1981 Nissan Patrol has manual transmission. 1981 Nissan Patrol will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Nissan Patrol | 2008 BMW 320 | |
| Make | Nissan | BMW |
| Model | Patrol | 320 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2075 kg | 1620 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2980 mm | 2730 mm |
