2008 BMW 118 vs. 1977 Datsun 280
To start off, 2008 BMW 118 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Datsun 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Datsun 280 would be higher. At 2,751 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Datsun 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 118 (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1977 Datsun 280. (125 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 118 should accelerate faster than 1977 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Datsun 280 weights approximately 35 kg more than 2008 BMW 118.
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, 1977 Datsun 280 (197 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 118. (190 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1977 Datsun 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 118.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 118 | 1977 Datsun 280 | |
| Make | BMW | Datsun |
| Model | 118 | 280 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2751 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 71 L |
