1977 Datsun 280 vs. 2008 Honda Civic
To start off, 2008 Honda Civic is newer by 31 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 17 more horse power than 2008 Honda Civic. (108 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1977 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 2008 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Datsun 280 weights approximately 195 kg more than 2008 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, 2008 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 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Honda Civic. (152 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1977 Datsun 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Datsun 280 | 2008 Honda Civic | |
| Make | Datsun | Honda |
| Model | 280 | Civic |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 1590 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 197 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 71 L | 50 L |
