1976 Chrysler Valiant vs. 1979 Datsun 280
To start off, 1979 Datsun 280 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Chrysler Valiant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Chrysler Valiant 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 49 more horse power than 1976 Chrysler Valiant. (91 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 1976 Chrysler Valiant. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun 280 weights approximately 442 kg more than 1976 Chrysler Valiant. 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 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Chrysler Valiant. (123 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Chrysler Valiant.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Chrysler Valiant | 1979 Datsun 280 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Datsun |
| Model | Valiant | 280 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1439 cc | 2751 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 202 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 830 kg | 1272 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2530 mm |
