1977 Datsun 280 vs. 2011 Chrysler Town & Country
To start off, 2011 Chrysler Town & Country is newer by 34 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Chrysler Town & Country is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Chrysler Town & Country (283 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 1977 Datsun 280. (125 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Chrysler Town & Country should accelerate faster than 1977 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Chrysler Town & Country weights approximately 735 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, 2011 Chrysler Town & Country, 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, 2011 Chrysler Town & Country (352 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Datsun 280. (197 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2011 Chrysler Town & Country will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Datsun 280. 2011 Chrysler Town & Country 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. 2011 Chrysler Town & Country will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Datsun 280 | 2011 Chrysler Town & Country | |
| Make | Datsun | Chrysler |
| Model | 280 | Town & Country |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 283 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 197 Nm | 352 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 2110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 5151 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1999 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1725 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 3078 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 71 L | 76 L |
