1979 Datsun 280 vs. 2003 Ford F-250
To start off, 2003 Ford F-250 is newer by 24 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 5,408 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ford F-250 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford F-250 (296 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford F-250 should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford F-250 weights approximately 1205 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, 2003 Ford F-250 (495 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 293 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Ford F-250 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 2003 Ford F-250 | |
| Make | Datsun | Ford |
| Model | 280 | F-250 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2753 cc | 5408 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 495 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 106 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 2410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 5760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 2040 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1940 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 3490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 144 L |
