1979 Datsun 280 vs. 1999 Mercury Mountaineer
To start off, 1999 Mercury Mountaineer 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 4,012 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Mercury Mountaineer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercury Mountaineer (208 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercury Mountaineer should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercury Mountaineer weights approximately 653 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 1999 Mercury Mountaineer 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, 1999 Mercury Mountaineer 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, 1999 Mercury Mountaineer (325 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Mercury Mountaineer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280. 1999 Mercury Mountaineer 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 Mercury Mountaineer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 1999 Mercury Mountaineer | |
| Make | Datsun | Mercury |
| Model | 280 | Mountaineer |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 4012 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 325 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1925 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1800 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2840 mm |
