1979 Datsun 280 vs. 1996 Toyota Picnic
To start off, 1996 Toyota Picnic 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, 1979 Datsun 280 (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1996 Toyota Picnic. (126 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 1996 Toyota Picnic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Toyota Picnic weights approximately 68 kg more than 1979 Datsun 280.
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 Picnic, 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 Picnic. (178 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Toyota Picnic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 1996 Toyota Picnic | |
| Make | Datsun | Toyota |
| Model | 280 | Picnic |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 126 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 178 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 86 mm |
| Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2740 mm |
