1979 Datsun 280 vs. 1982 Holden Commodore
To start off, 1982 Holden Commodore is newer by 3 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 2,751 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Datsun 280 (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1982 Holden Commodore. (78 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 1982 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun 280 weights approximately 112 kg more than 1982 Holden Commodore. 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, 1979 Datsun 280 (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Holden Commodore. (140 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Holden Commodore. 1982 Holden Commodore 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. 1982 Holden Commodore will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 1982 Holden Commodore | |
| Make | Datsun | Holden |
| Model | 280 | Commodore |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1982 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 1892 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 78 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2670 mm |
