1979 Datsun 280 vs. 1959 Land Rover 109
To start off, 1979 Datsun 280 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Land Rover 109. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Land Rover 109 would be higher. At 2,751 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Datsun 280 (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1959 Land Rover 109. (67 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 1959 Land Rover 109. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Land Rover 109 weights approximately 428 kg more than 1979 Datsun 280.
Because 1959 Land Rover 109 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Datsun 280. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1959 Land Rover 109 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1979 Datsun 280 (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Land Rover 109. (157 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Land Rover 109.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 1959 Land Rover 109 | |
| Make | Datsun | Land Rover |
| Model | 280 | 109 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 2286 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 2070 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2780 mm |
