1979 Datsun 280 vs. 1997 Infiniti Q45
To start off, 1997 Infiniti Q45 is newer by 18 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 4,130 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Infiniti Q45 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Infiniti Q45 (265 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Infiniti Q45 should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Infiniti Q45 weights approximately 487 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, 1997 Infiniti Q45 (378 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 176 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Infiniti Q45 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280. 1997 Infiniti Q45 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. 1997 Infiniti Q45 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 1997 Infiniti Q45 | |
| Make | Datsun | Infiniti |
| Model | 280 | Q45 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 4130 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 265 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 378 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| 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 | 1759 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 5070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2840 mm |
