1979 Datsun 280 vs. 1988 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1988 Pontiac Firebird 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 2,827 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Datsun 280 (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1988 Pontiac Firebird. (133 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 1988 Pontiac Firebird.
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, 1988 Pontiac Firebird (224 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1988 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 1988 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Datsun | Pontiac |
| Model | 280 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 2827 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 75.9 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2580 mm |
