1977 Datsun 280 vs. 1996 Honda Civic
To start off, 1996 Honda Civic is newer by 19 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, 1977 Datsun 280 (125 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1996 Honda Civic. (112 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1977 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 1996 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Datsun 280 weights approximately 373 kg more than 1996 Honda Civic. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1996 Honda Civic, 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, 1977 Datsun 280 (197 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Honda Civic. (138 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 1977 Datsun 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Datsun 280 | 1996 Honda Civic | |
| Make | Datsun | Honda |
| Model | 280 | Civic |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 112 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 197 Nm | 138 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 84.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1002 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 71 L | 45 L |
