1978 Buick Estate vs. 1983 Datsun 280
To start off, 1983 Datsun 280 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Buick Estate. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Buick Estate would be higher. At 5,736 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Buick Estate is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Datsun 280 (180 HP) has 27 more horse power than 1978 Buick Estate. (153 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1983 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 1978 Buick Estate. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Buick Estate weights approximately 450 kg more than 1983 Datsun 280.
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, 1978 Buick Estate (381 Nm) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Datsun 280. (275 Nm). This means 1978 Buick Estate will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Datsun 280. 1978 Buick Estate has automatic transmission and 1983 Datsun 280 has manual transmission. 1983 Datsun 280 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Buick Estate will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Buick Estate | 1983 Datsun 280 | |
| Make | Buick | Datsun |
| Model | Estate | 280 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5736 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 180 HP |
| Torque | 381 Nm | 275 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5510 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1990 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2330 mm |
