1979 Datsun 280 vs. 2003 Nissan X-Trail
To start off, 2003 Nissan X-Trail 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 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Nissan X-Trail (177 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Nissan X-Trail should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Nissan X-Trail weights approximately 637 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.
Because 2003 Nissan X-Trail is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Datsun 280. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Nissan X-Trail will offer significantly more control. 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 Nissan X-Trail (245 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Nissan X-Trail will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280. 2003 Nissan X-Trail 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 Nissan X-Trail will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 2003 Nissan X-Trail | |
| Make | Datsun | Nissan |
| Model | 280 | X-Trail |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2753 cc | 2488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1842 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 60 L |
