1979 Datsun 280 vs. 1986 Pontiac Bonneville
To start off, 1986 Pontiac Bonneville is newer by 7 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 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Pontiac Bonneville is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Pontiac Bonneville (149 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Pontiac Bonneville should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Pontiac Bonneville weights approximately 295 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.
Because 1979 Datsun 280 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1979 Datsun 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Pontiac Bonneville, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1986 Pontiac Bonneville (271 Nm) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm). This means 1986 Pontiac Bonneville will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 1986 Pontiac Bonneville | |
| Make | Datsun | Pontiac |
| Model | 280 | Bonneville |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2753 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2820 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 68 L |
