1979 Datsun 280 vs. 1998 Porsche 993
To start off, 1998 Porsche 993 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Porsche 993 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Porsche 993 (296 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Porsche 993 should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Porsche 993 weights approximately 148 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.
Because 1998 Porsche 993 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 Porsche 993 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, 1998 Porsche 993 (362 Nm @ 5250 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Porsche 993 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 1998 Porsche 993 | |
| Make | Datsun | Porsche |
| Model | 280 | 993 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | boxer |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 362 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2280 mm |
