1999 BMW 540 vs. 1976 Datsun Violet
To start off, 1999 BMW 540 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Datsun Violet. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Datsun Violet would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW 540 (282 HP) has 201 more horse power than 1976 Datsun Violet. (81 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 1976 Datsun Violet. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 540 weights approximately 826 kg more than 1976 Datsun Violet. 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, 1999 BMW 540 (439 Nm) has 319 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Datsun Violet. (120 Nm). This means 1999 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Datsun Violet.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 540 | 1976 Datsun Violet | |
| Make | BMW | Datsun |
| Model | 540 | Violet |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 81 HP |
| Torque | 439 Nm | 120 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1771 kg | 945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2410 mm |
