1979 Datsun 280 vs. 1973 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1979 Datsun 280 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 6,547 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Pontiac Firebird (285 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 324 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, 1973 Pontiac Firebird (421 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 219 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1973 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 1973 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Datsun | Pontiac |
| Model | 280 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 6547 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 285 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 421 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 104.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1596 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2750 mm |
