1983 BMW 325 vs. 1979 Datsun 280
To start off, 1983 BMW 325 is newer by 4 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 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 BMW 325 (171 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun 280 weights approximately 70 kg more than 1983 BMW 325.
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, 1983 BMW 325 (222 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1983 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 BMW 325 | 1979 Datsun 280 | |
| Make | BMW | Datsun |
| Model | 325 | 280 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 202 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1135 kg | 1205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2330 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
