1952 Austin A vs. 1977 Datsun 280
To start off, 1977 Datsun 280 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1952 Austin A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1952 Austin A would be higher. At 3,992 cc (6 cylinders), 1952 Austin A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Datsun 280 (125 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1952 Austin A. (124 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 1952 Austin A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1952 Austin A weights approximately 600 kg more than 1977 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, 1952 Austin A (288 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Datsun 280. (197 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1952 Austin A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1952 Austin A | 1977 Datsun 280 | |
| Make | Austin | Datsun |
| Model | A | 280 |
| Year Released | 1952 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3992 cc | 2751 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 288 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.3 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 111.1 mm | 79 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1975 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3040 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 71 L |
