1979 Datsun 280 vs. 1999 Plymouth Prowler
To start off, 1999 Plymouth Prowler 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 3,518 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Plymouth Prowler is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Plymouth Prowler (253 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Plymouth Prowler should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Plymouth Prowler weights approximately 43 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 Plymouth Prowler (345 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Plymouth Prowler will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280. 1999 Plymouth Prowler 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 Plymouth Prowler will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 1999 Plymouth Prowler | |
| Make | Datsun | Plymouth |
| Model | 280 | Prowler |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 3518 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 253 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 345 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 9.9:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2750 mm |
