1966 Datsun 1000 vs. 1979 Datsun 280
To start off, 1979 Datsun 280 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Datsun 1000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Datsun 1000 would be higher. At 2,751 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Datsun 280 (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1966 Datsun 1000. (61 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 1966 Datsun 1000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun 280 weights approximately 647 kg more than 1966 Datsun 1000. 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, 1979 Datsun 280 (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Datsun 1000. (84 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Datsun 1000.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Datsun 1000 | 1979 Datsun 280 | |
| Make | Datsun | Datsun |
| Model | 1000 | 280 |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 988 cc | 2751 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 61 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 202 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 59 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 135 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 625 kg | 1272 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2530 mm |
