1984 BMW 318 vs. 1979 Datsun 280
To start off, 1984 BMW 318 is newer by 5 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 2,751 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Datsun 280 (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1984 BMW 318. (103 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 1984 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun 280 weights approximately 272 kg more than 1984 BMW 318. 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, 1979 Datsun 280 (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 BMW 318. (145 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 BMW 318 | 1979 Datsun 280 | |
| Make | BMW | Datsun |
| Model | 318 | 280 |
| Year Released | 1984 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 2751 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 202 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 178 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1272 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2530 mm |
