1977 Datsun 280 vs. 2005 Dodge Nitro
To start off, 2005 Dodge Nitro is newer by 28 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 3,704 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Dodge Nitro (208 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1977 Datsun 280. (125 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1977 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 490 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 2005 Dodge Nitro is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1977 Datsun 280. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Dodge Nitro will offer significantly more control. 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, 2005 Dodge Nitro (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Datsun 280. (197 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2005 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Datsun 280. 2005 Dodge Nitro 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. 2005 Dodge Nitro will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Datsun 280 | 2005 Dodge Nitro | |
| Make | Datsun | Dodge |
| Model | 280 | Nitro |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 3704 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 197 Nm | 319 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 91 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1865 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2760 mm |
