1979 Datsun 280 vs. 1996 Toyota Starlet
To start off, 1996 Toyota Starlet 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 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Datsun 280 (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1996 Toyota Starlet. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 1996 Toyota Starlet. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun 280 weights approximately 449 kg more than 1996 Toyota Starlet. 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 Toyota Starlet, 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 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Toyota Starlet. (101 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Toyota Starlet.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 1996 Toyota Starlet | |
| Make | Datsun | Toyota |
| Model | 280 | Starlet |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2753 cc | 1332 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 756 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 3750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1410 mm |
