1979 Datsun 280 vs. 1998 Dodge Dakota
To start off, 1998 Dodge Dakota is newer by 19 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 22 more horse power than 1998 Dodge Dakota. (118 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 1998 Dodge Dakota. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 258 kg more than 1979 Datsun 280.
Because 1998 Dodge Dakota 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, 1998 Dodge Dakota 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, 1979 Datsun 280 (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Dodge Dakota. (196 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Dodge Dakota.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 1998 Dodge Dakota | |
| Make | Datsun | Dodge |
| Model | 280 | Dakota |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 2458 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 3 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2850 mm |
