1972 AMC Javelin vs. 1979 Datsun 280
To start off, 1979 Datsun 280 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 AMC Javelin. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 AMC Javelin would be higher. At 6,571 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AMC Javelin is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 AMC Javelin (255 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Javelin should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Javelin weights approximately 295 kg more than 1979 Datsun 280. 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, 1972 AMC Javelin (468 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 266 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Javelin will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Javelin | 1979 Datsun 280 | |
| Make | AMC | Datsun |
| Model | Javelin | 280 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6571 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 468 Nm | 202 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 105.6 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.4 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2330 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 80 L |
