1979 Datsun 280 vs. 1987 De Tomaso Pantera
To start off, 1987 De Tomaso Pantera is newer by 8 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 5,769 cc (8 cylinders), 1987 De Tomaso Pantera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 De Tomaso Pantera (350 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 210 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 De Tomaso Pantera should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 De Tomaso Pantera weights approximately 148 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, 1987 De Tomaso Pantera (460 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 258 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1987 De Tomaso Pantera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 1987 De Tomaso Pantera | |
| Make | Datsun | De Tomaso |
| Model | 280 | Pantera |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 5769 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 350 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1990 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2520 mm |
