2008 BMW 320 vs. 1979 Datsun 280
To start off, 2008 BMW 320 is newer by 29 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, 2008 BMW 320 (161 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 320 weights approximately 188 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, 2008 BMW 320 (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280. 2008 BMW 320 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. 2008 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 320 | 1979 Datsun 280 | |
| Make | BMW | Datsun |
| Model | 320 | 280 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2751 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 202 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 215 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 | 1460 kg | 1272 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2530 mm |
