1979 Datsun 280 vs. 1988 Ford Tempo
To start off, 1988 Ford Tempo is newer by 9 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 44 more horse power than 1988 Ford Tempo. (96 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun 280 weights approximately 167 kg more than 1988 Ford Tempo. 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, 1988 Ford Tempo, 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, 1979 Datsun 280 (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Tempo. (176 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Tempo. 1988 Ford Tempo 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. 1988 Ford Tempo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 1988 Ford Tempo | |
| Make | Datsun | Ford |
| Model | 280 | Tempo |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 2307 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 93.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2540 mm |
