1979 Datsun 280 vs. 2001 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2001 Ford Mustang is newer by 22 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 4,599 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Ford Mustang (265 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Ford Mustang weights approximately 280 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, 2001 Ford Mustang (414 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 212 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 2001 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Datsun | Ford |
| Model | 280 | Mustang |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2753 cc | 4599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 265 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 414 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 59 L |
