1979 Datsun 280 vs. 1999 Lexus GS
To start off, 1999 Lexus GS is newer by 20 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 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Lexus GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Lexus GS (225 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Lexus GS should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Lexus GS weights approximately 455 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, 1999 Lexus GS (296 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Lexus GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280. 1999 Lexus GS 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. 1999 Lexus GS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 1999 Lexus GS | |
| Make | Datsun | Lexus |
| Model | 280 | GS |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2753 cc | 2994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 296 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 75 L |
