1978 Chrysler Valiant vs. 1979 Datsun 280
To start off, 1979 Datsun 280 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Chrysler Valiant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Chrysler Valiant would be higher. At 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Chrysler Valiant is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Datsun 280 (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler Valiant. (138 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler Valiant. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Chrysler Valiant weights approximately 148 kg more than 1979 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 Chrysler Valiant (277 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Chrysler Valiant will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chrysler Valiant | 1979 Datsun 280 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Datsun |
| Model | Valiant | 280 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4015 cc | 2751 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 277 Nm | 202 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1272 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2530 mm |
