1986 BMW M3 vs. 1979 Datsun 280
To start off, 1986 BMW M3 is newer by 7 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, 1986 BMW M3 (197 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun 280 weights approximately 102 kg more than 1986 BMW M3.
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, 1986 BMW M3 (240 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1986 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW M3 | 1979 Datsun 280 | |
| Make | BMW | Datsun |
| Model | M3 | 280 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2302 cc | 2751 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 202 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1272 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2530 mm |
