1979 Datsun 280 vs. 1970 Pontiac GTO
To start off, 1979 Datsun 280 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Pontiac GTO. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Pontiac GTO would be higher. At 6,546 cc (8 cylinders), 1970 Pontiac GTO is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Pontiac GTO (256 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1970 Pontiac GTO should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Pontiac GTO weights approximately 425 kg more than 1979 Datsun 280. 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, 1970 Pontiac GTO (461 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 259 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1970 Pontiac GTO will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 1970 Pontiac GTO | |
| Make | Datsun | Pontiac |
| Model | 280 | GTO |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1970 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2753 cc | 6546 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 461 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 104.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 67 L |
