1979 Datsun 280 vs. 1963 Porsche 356
To start off, 1979 Datsun 280 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Datsun 280 (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1963 Porsche 356. (94 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 1963 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun 280 weights approximately 270 kg more than 1963 Porsche 356. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1979 Datsun 280 (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 Porsche 356. (126 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 Porsche 356.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 1963 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | Datsun | Porsche |
| Model | 280 | 356 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1963 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2753 cc | 1580 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 935 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 61 L |
