1979 Datsun 280 vs. 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara
To start off, 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara 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, 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara (141 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara weights approximately 133 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 Suzuki Grand Vitara 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 Suzuki Grand Vitara 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 Suzuki Grand Vitara (212 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280. 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara 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 Suzuki Grand Vitara will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara | |
| Make | Datsun | Suzuki |
| Model | 280 | Grand Vitara |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 2493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 212 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 75 mm |
| 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 | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2490 mm |
