1979 Datsun 280 vs. 1996 Toyota Celica
To start off, 1996 Toyota Celica 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 2,751 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Toyota Celica (173 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Toyota Celica should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun 280 weights approximately 92 kg more than 1996 Toyota Celica.
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 Toyota Celica, 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, 1979 Datsun 280 (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Toyota Celica. (178 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Toyota Celica.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 1996 Toyota Celica | |
| Make | Datsun | Toyota |
| Model | 280 | Celica |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 178 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2470 mm |
