1979 Datsun 280 vs. 1984 Maserati 420
To start off, 1984 Maserati 420 is newer by 5 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, 1984 Maserati 420 (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1984 Maserati 420 should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun 280 weights approximately 92 kg more than 1984 Maserati 420.
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, 1984 Maserati 420 (308 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1984 Maserati 420 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 1984 Maserati 420 | |
| Make | Datsun | Maserati |
| Model | 280 | 420 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1984 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 2491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 308 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2610 mm |
