1979 Datsun 280 vs. 2002 Donkervoort D8
To start off, 2002 Donkervoort D8 is newer by 23 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, 2002 Donkervoort D8 (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Donkervoort D8 should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun 280 weights approximately 647 kg more than 2002 Donkervoort D8.
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, 2002 Donkervoort D8 (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Donkervoort D8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 2002 Donkervoort D8 | |
| Make | Datsun | Donkervoort |
| Model | 280 | D8 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 1780 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 3420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2310 mm |
