1979 Datsun 280 vs. 1995 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1995 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 16 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), 1995 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Mercedes-Benz S (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1995 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 618 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, 1995 Mercedes-Benz S (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1995 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 1995 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Datsun | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 280 | S |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1995 |
| 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 | 270 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 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2410 mm |
