1979 Datsun 280 vs. 1989 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 1989 Nissan Laurel 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, 1989 Nissan Laurel (202 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Nissan Laurel should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Nissan Laurel weights approximately 108 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, 1989 Nissan Laurel (264 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1989 Nissan Laurel will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280. 1989 Nissan Laurel 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. 1989 Nissan Laurel will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Datsun 280 | 1989 Nissan Laurel | |
Make | Datsun | Nissan |
Model | 280 | Laurel |
Year Released | 1979 | 1989 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2751 cc | 1996 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 140 HP | 202 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 202 Nm | 264 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1380 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4700 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2680 mm |