1979 Datsun 280 vs. 2000 Mazda Familia
To start off, 2000 Mazda Familia is newer by 21 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 35 more horse power than 2000 Mazda Familia. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 2000 Mazda Familia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Mazda Familia weights approximately 8 kg more than 1979 Datsun 280.
Because 2000 Mazda Familia 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, 2000 Mazda Familia 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, 1979 Datsun 280 (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Mazda Familia. (137 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Mazda Familia. 2000 Mazda Familia 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. 2000 Mazda Familia will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 2000 Mazda Familia | |
| Make | Datsun | Mazda |
| Model | 280 | Familia |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 78.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 78.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2620 mm |
