1979 Datsun 280 vs. 2000 Panoz AIV
To start off, 2000 Panoz AIV 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 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 2000 Panoz AIV is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Panoz AIV (301 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 161 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Panoz AIV should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun 280 weights approximately 92 kg more than 2000 Panoz AIV.
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, 2000 Panoz AIV (407 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 205 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2000 Panoz AIV will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 2000 Panoz AIV | |
| Make | Datsun | Panoz |
| Model | 280 | AIV |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 4601 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 301 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 407 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2660 mm |
