2009 BMW 320 vs. 1979 Datsun Laurel
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 Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Datsun Laurel would be higher. At 2,393 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 320 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 320 weights approximately 302 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.
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, 2009 BMW 320 (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (175 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 320 | 1979 Datsun Laurel | |
| Make | BMW | Datsun |
| Model | 320 | Laurel |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1188 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
