1979 Datsun 280 vs. 1964 Rover P5
To start off, 1979 Datsun 280 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Rover P5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Rover P5 would be higher. At 2,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1964 Rover P5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Datsun 280 (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1964 Rover P5. (119 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 1964 Rover P5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1964 Rover P5 weights approximately 448 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, 1964 Rover P5 (219 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1964 Rover P5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 1964 Rover P5 | |
| Make | Datsun | Rover |
| Model | 280 | P5 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1964 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 2995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 119 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 219 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2650 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 77.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 105 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2820 mm |
