1979 Datsun 280 vs. 1989 Ford Escort
To start off, 1989 Ford Escort is newer by 10 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 79 more horse power than 1989 Ford Escort. (61 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun 280 weights approximately 387 kg more than 1989 Ford Escort. 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, 1989 Ford Escort, 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 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Escort. (100 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 1989 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Datsun | Ford |
| Model | 280 | Escort |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 61 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 149 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2410 mm |
