1979 Datsun 280 vs. 2004 Dodge Durango
To start off, 2004 Dodge Durango is newer by 25 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 3,704 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Dodge Durango is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Dodge Durango (210 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Dodge Durango should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Dodge Durango weights approximately 847 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, 2004 Dodge Durango (319 Nm) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm). This means 2004 Dodge Durango will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 2004 Dodge Durango | |
| Make | Datsun | Dodge |
| Model | 280 | Durango |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 3704 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 319 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 9.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 2119 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 5110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1940 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1890 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 3040 mm |
