2004 BMW 525 vs. 1979 Datsun 280
To start off, 2004 BMW 525 is newer by 25 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, 2004 BMW 525 (189 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 525 weights approximately 492 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, 2004 BMW 525 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 198 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280. 2004 BMW 525 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. 2004 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 525 | 1979 Datsun 280 | |
| Make | BMW | Datsun |
| Model | 525 | 280 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2751 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 202 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.1 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 222 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1764 kg | 1272 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2530 mm |
