1979 Datsun 280 vs. 1975 Jaguar XJS
To start off, 1979 Datsun 280 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Jaguar XJS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Jaguar XJS would be higher. At 5,342 cc (12 cylinders), 1975 Jaguar XJS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Jaguar XJS (291 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1975 Jaguar XJS should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Jaguar XJS weights approximately 565 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, 1975 Jaguar XJS (431 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 229 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1975 Jaguar XJS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 1975 Jaguar XJS | |
| Make | Datsun | Jaguar |
| Model | 280 | XJS |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1975 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2753 cc | 5342 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 291 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 431 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 12.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1770 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 86 L |
