1979 Datsun 280 vs. 1996 Volvo 440
To start off, 1996 Volvo 440 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 57 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 440. (83 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 440. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun 280 weights approximately 247 kg more than 1996 Volvo 440. 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 Volvo 440, 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 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 440. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 440.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 1996 Volvo 440 | |
| Make | Datsun | Volvo |
| Model | 280 | 440 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 1594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2510 mm |
