1979 Datsun 280 vs. 1966 Volvo 144
To start off, 1979 Datsun 280 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Volvo 144. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Volvo 144 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 16 more horse power than 1966 Volvo 144. (124 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 1966 Volvo 144. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1966 Volvo 144 weights approximately 18 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, 1979 Datsun 280 (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Volvo 144. (167 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Volvo 144.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 1966 Volvo 144 | |
| Make | Datsun | Volvo |
| Model | 280 | 144 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2620 mm |
