1977 Datsun 280 vs. 1972 Ford Gran Torino
To start off, 1977 Datsun 280 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Ford Gran Torino. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Ford Gran Torino would be higher. At 4,097 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Ford Gran Torino is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Datsun 280 (125 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1972 Ford Gran Torino. (95 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1977 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 1972 Ford Gran Torino. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Ford Gran Torino weights approximately 483 kg more than 1977 Datsun 280.
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 Ford Gran Torino (245 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Datsun 280. (197 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1972 Ford Gran Torino will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Datsun 280 | 1972 Ford Gran Torino | |
| Make | Datsun | Ford |
| Model | 280 | Gran Torino |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 4097 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 95 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 197 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 93.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 99.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1858 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 5470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 2010 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 3000 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 71 L | 76 L |
