1979 Datsun 280 vs. 2003 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2003 Ford Mustang 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 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Mustang (400 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 260 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Mustang weights approximately 206 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 Mustang (529 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 327 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280. 2003 Ford Mustang 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. 2003 Ford Mustang will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 2003 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Datsun | Ford |
| Model | 280 | Mustang |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 4600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 529 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1478 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2580 mm |
