2008 BMW X5 vs. 1979 Datsun Laurel
To start off, 2008 BMW X5 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Datsun Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Datsun Laurel would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X5 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X5 weights approximately 895 kg more than 1979 Datsun Laurel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Datsun Laurel is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1979 Datsun Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 BMW X5, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 X5 (301 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (176 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun Laurel. 1979 Datsun Laurel has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW X5 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW X5 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Datsun Laurel will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X5 | 1979 Datsun Laurel | |
| Make | BMW | Datsun |
| Model | X5 | Laurel |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 301 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2080 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 60 L |
