1953 Austin-Healey 100 vs. 1977 Datsun 280
To start off, 1977 Datsun 280 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1953 Austin-Healey 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1953 Austin-Healey 100 would be higher. At 2,751 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Datsun 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Datsun 280 (125 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1953 Austin-Healey 100. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 1953 Austin-Healey 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Datsun 280 weights approximately 427 kg more than 1953 Austin-Healey 100. 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, 1977 Datsun 280 (197 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1953 Austin-Healey 100. (144 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1977 Datsun 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1953 Austin-Healey 100.
Compare all specifications:
| 1953 Austin-Healey 100 | 1977 Datsun 280 | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Datsun |
| Model | 100 | 280 |
| Year Released | 1953 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2660 cc | 2751 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.3 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 111.1 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.5:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 948 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 71 L |
