1979 Datsun 280 vs. 1997 Toyota Avensis
To start off, 1997 Toyota Avensis 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 14 more horse power than 1997 Toyota Avensis. (126 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 1997 Toyota Avensis. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Toyota Avensis weights approximately 3 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, 1997 Toyota Avensis, 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 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Toyota Avensis. (187 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Toyota Avensis. 1997 Toyota Avensis 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 Toyota Avensis will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 1997 Toyota Avensis | |
| Make | Datsun | Toyota |
| Model | 280 | Avensis |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 1995 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 | 187 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 | 195 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1275 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2640 mm |
