1979 Datsun 280 vs. 1972 Ford Torino
To start off, 1979 Datsun 280 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Ford Torino. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Ford Torino would be higher. At 4,097 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Ford Torino is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Datsun 280 (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1972 Ford Torino. (95 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 1972 Ford Torino. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Ford Torino weights approximately 380 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, 1972 Ford Torino (246 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1972 Ford Torino will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 1972 Ford Torino | |
| Make | Datsun | Ford |
| Model | 280 | Torino |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 4097 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 95 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 246 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 93.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 99.3 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 | 1652 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 5280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 2020 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 3000 mm |
