1979 Datsun 280 vs. 1993 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 1993 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 14 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 2,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1993 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Mercedes-Benz C (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1993 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 208 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, 1993 Mercedes-Benz C (275 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1993 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280. 1993 Mercedes-Benz C 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. 1993 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 1993 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Datsun | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 280 | C |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1993 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 2797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 275 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 227 km/hour |
| 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 | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2700 mm |
