1979 Datsun 280 vs. 1996 Honda Legend
To start off, 1996 Honda Legend is newer by 17 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 3,472 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Honda Legend is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Honda Legend (202 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Honda Legend should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Honda Legend weights approximately 398 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, 1996 Honda Legend, 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, 1996 Honda Legend (297 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Honda Legend will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280. 1996 Honda Legend 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. 1996 Honda Legend will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 1996 Honda Legend | |
| Make | Datsun | Honda |
| Model | 280 | Legend |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 3472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 202 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 297 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 91 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1670 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2920 mm |
