1997 BMW Z3 vs. 1979 Datsun Laurel
To start off, 1997 BMW Z3 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Datsun Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Datsun Laurel would be higher. At 3,245 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW Z3 (333 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 220 more horse power than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW Z3 weights approximately 208 kg more than 1979 Datsun Laurel. 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, 1997 BMW Z3 (355 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 179 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (176 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1997 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun Laurel. 1979 Datsun Laurel has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW Z3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Datsun Laurel will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW Z3 | 1979 Datsun Laurel | |
| Make | BMW | Datsun |
| Model | Z3 | Laurel |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3245 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 333 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 60 L |
