1972 Citroen GS 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 Citroen GS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Citroen GS 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 85 more horse power than 1972 Citroen GS. (55 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 1972 Citroen GS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun 280 weights approximately 382 kg more than 1972 Citroen GS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Datsun 280 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1979 Datsun 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 Citroen GS, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Citroen GS. (72 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Citroen GS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Citroen GS | 1979 Datsun 280 | |
| Make | Citroen | Datsun |
| Model | GS | 280 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1015 cc | 2751 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | V |
| Horse Power | 55 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 72 Nm | 202 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 59 mm | 79 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 890 kg | 1272 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2530 mm |
