1979 Datsun 280 vs. 1997 Kia Retona
To start off, 1997 Kia Retona 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 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 50 more horse power than 1997 Kia Retona. (90 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 1997 Kia Retona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Kia Retona weights approximately 598 kg more than 1979 Datsun 280.
Because 1997 Kia Retona is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Datsun 280. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Kia Retona will offer significantly more control. 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 Kia Retona (206 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Kia Retona will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 1997 Kia Retona | |
| Make | Datsun | Kia |
| Model | 280 | Retona |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 92 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2370 mm |
