1979 Datsun 280 vs. 2003 Opel Speedster
To start off, 2003 Opel Speedster 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 2,751 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Speedster (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Speedster should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun 280 weights approximately 267 kg more than 2003 Opel Speedster.
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 Opel Speedster (250 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Speedster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 2003 Opel Speedster | |
| Make | Datsun | Opel |
| Model | 280 | Speedster |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 1993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 243 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1005 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2400 mm |
