1979 Datsun 280 vs. 1987 Lada 2104
To start off, 1987 Lada 2104 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 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 69 more horse power than 1987 Lada 2104. (71 HP @ 5550 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 1987 Lada 2104. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun 280 weights approximately 222 kg more than 1987 Lada 2104. 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 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Lada 2104. (118 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Lada 2104.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 1987 Lada 2104 | |
| Make | Datsun | Lada |
| Model | 280 | 2104 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 1499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5550 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 71 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 9.9:1 |
| Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 150 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2430 mm |
