2009 BMW M3 vs. 1973 Datsun Laurel
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 36 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 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 290 more horse power than 1973 Datsun Laurel. (124 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1973 Datsun Laurel.
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 M3 (295 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Datsun Laurel. (171 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Datsun Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 1973 Datsun Laurel | |
| Make | BMW | Datsun |
| Model | M3 | Laurel |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 295 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 171 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
