2008 BMW 523 vs. 1973 Datsun Laurel
To start off, 2008 BMW 523 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Datsun Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Datsun Laurel would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 523 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1973 Datsun Laurel. (124 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 1973 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Datsun Laurel weights approximately 285 kg more than 2008 BMW 523.
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 523 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Datsun Laurel. (171 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Datsun Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 523 | 1973 Datsun Laurel | |
| Make | BMW | Datsun |
| Model | 523 | Laurel |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.8 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 171 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9 seconds | 13.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1775 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
