1989 BMW 850 vs. 1979 Datsun 280
To start off, 1989 BMW 850 is newer by 10 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 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1989 BMW 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 BMW 850 (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 BMW 850 weights approximately 50 kg more than 1979 Datsun 280. 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, 1989 BMW 850 (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 248 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1989 BMW 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280. 1989 BMW 850 has automatic transmission and 1979 Datsun 280 has manual transmission. 1979 Datsun 280 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 BMW 850 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1989 BMW 850 | 1979 Datsun 280 | |
Make | BMW | Datsun |
Model | 850 | 280 |
Year Released | 1989 | 1979 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4988 cc | 2753 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 296 HP | 140 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 450 Nm | 202 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 8.3:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1205 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4350 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2330 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 80 L |