1979 Datsun 280 vs. 1999 Renault Laguna
To start off, 1999 Renault Laguna 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 2,751 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Datsun 280 (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1999 Renault Laguna. (109 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 1999 Renault Laguna. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Renault Laguna weights approximately 13 kg more than 1979 Datsun 280.
Because 1979 Datsun 280 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1979 Datsun 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Renault Laguna, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1979 Datsun 280 (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Renault Laguna. (153 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Renault Laguna.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 1999 Renault Laguna | |
| Make | Datsun | Renault |
| Model | 280 | Laguna |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 153 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2680 mm |
