1977 Datsun 280 vs. 1997 Oldsmobile Silhouette
To start off, 1997 Oldsmobile Silhouette is newer by 20 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 3,349 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Oldsmobile Silhouette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Oldsmobile Silhouette (183 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1977 Datsun 280. (125 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Oldsmobile Silhouette should accelerate faster than 1977 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Oldsmobile Silhouette weights approximately 370 kg more than 1977 Datsun 280. 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, 1997 Oldsmobile Silhouette, 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, 1997 Oldsmobile Silhouette (285 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Datsun 280. (197 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1997 Oldsmobile Silhouette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Datsun 280. 1997 Oldsmobile Silhouette 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. 1997 Oldsmobile Silhouette will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Datsun 280 | 1997 Oldsmobile Silhouette | |
| Make | Datsun | Oldsmobile |
| Model | 280 | Silhouette |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 3349 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 183 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 197 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1745 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2850 mm |
