2009 BMW 320 vs. 1979 Datsun 280
To start off, 2009 BMW 320 is newer by 30 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 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 320 (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280.
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, 1979 Datsun 280 (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 320. (190 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 320 | 1979 Datsun 280 | |
| Make | BMW | Datsun |
| Model | 320 | 280 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 202 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2330 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
