1979 Datsun 280 vs. 1991 Saab 9000
To start off, 1991 Saab 9000 is newer by 12 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, 1991 Saab 9000 (185 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Saab 9000 should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Saab 9000 weights approximately 178 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.
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, 1991 Saab 9000, 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, 1991 Saab 9000 (278 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1991 Saab 9000 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 1991 Saab 9000 | |
| Make | Datsun | Saab |
| Model | 280 | 9000 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 278 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 90.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 78 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2680 mm |
