1979 Datsun 280 vs. 1980 Ford Fairlane
To start off, 1980 Ford Fairlane is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Datsun 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Datsun 280 would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Datsun 280 (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1980 Ford Fairlane. (124 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Fairlane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Ford Fairlane weights approximately 199 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, 1980 Ford Fairlane (296 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1980 Ford Fairlane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280. 1980 Ford Fairlane has automatic transmission and 1979 Datsun 280 has manual transmission. 1979 Datsun 280 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Ford Fairlane will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Datsun 280 | 1980 Ford Fairlane | |
Make | Datsun | Ford |
Model | 280 | Fairlane |
Year Released | 1979 | 1980 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2753 cc | 4093 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 140 HP | 124 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Torque | 202 Nm | 296 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1404 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 5020 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2950 mm |