1979 Datsun 280 vs. 1968 Simca 1200S
To start off, 1979 Datsun 280 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Simca 1200S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Simca 1200S 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 61 more horse power than 1968 Simca 1200S. (79 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 1968 Simca 1200S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun 280 weights approximately 417 kg more than 1968 Simca 1200S. 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 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Simca 1200S. (105 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Simca 1200S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 1968 Simca 1200S | |
| Make | Datsun | Simca |
| Model | 280 | 1200S |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1968 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 1204 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 105 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2240 mm |
