1977 Datsun 280 vs. 2012 Toyota Tacoma
To start off, 2012 Toyota Tacoma is newer by 35 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, 2012 Toyota Tacoma (157 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1977 Datsun 280. (125 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Toyota Tacoma should accelerate faster than 1977 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Datsun 280 weights approximately 301 kg more than 2012 Toyota Tacoma.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Toyota Tacoma. (180 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1977 Datsun 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Toyota Tacoma.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Datsun 280 | 2012 Toyota Tacoma | |
| Make | Datsun | Toyota |
| Model | 280 | Tacoma |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 2701 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 197 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1074 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 5290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 3240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 71 L | 79 L |
