1979 Datsun 280 vs. 1996 Lexus GS
To start off, 1996 Lexus GS 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 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Lexus GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lexus GS (205 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lexus GS should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lexus GS weights approximately 448 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, 1996 Lexus GS (275 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Lexus GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280. 1996 Lexus GS 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 Lexus GS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 1996 Lexus GS | |
| Make | Datsun | Lexus |
| Model | 280 | GS |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 2997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 205 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 275 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 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 | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2810 mm |
