1977 Datsun 280 vs. 1988 Honda Legend
To start off, 1988 Honda Legend is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Datsun 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Datsun 280 would be higher. At 2,751 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Datsun 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Honda Legend (188 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1977 Datsun 280. (125 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Honda Legend should accelerate faster than 1977 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Datsun 280 weights approximately 75 kg more than 1988 Honda Legend.
Because 1977 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 1977 Datsun 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Honda Legend, 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, 1988 Honda Legend (241 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Datsun 280. (197 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1988 Honda Legend will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Datsun 280. 1988 Honda Legend has automatic transmission and 1977 Datsun 280 has manual transmission. 1977 Datsun 280 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 Honda Legend will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Datsun 280 | 1988 Honda Legend | |
| Make | Datsun | Honda |
| Model | 280 | Legend |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 188 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 197 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 63 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 71 L | 68 L |
