1979 Datsun 280 vs. 1998 Nissan 200 SX Silvia
To start off, 1998 Nissan 200 SX Silvia 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 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Nissan 200 SX Silvia (197 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Nissan 200 SX Silvia should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Nissan 200 SX Silvia weights approximately 55 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, 1998 Nissan 200 SX Silvia (265 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Nissan 200 SX Silvia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 1998 Nissan 200 SX Silvia | |
| Make | Datsun | Nissan |
| Model | 280 | 200 SX Silvia |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2753 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 265 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2530 mm |
