1979 Datsun 280 vs. 2004 Ford GT
To start off, 2004 Ford GT 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 5,409 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford GT is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford GT (494 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 354 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford GT should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford GT weights approximately 248 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 Ford GT (679 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 477 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Ford GT will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 2004 Ford GT | |
| Make | Datsun | Ford |
| Model | 280 | GT |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 5409 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 494 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 679 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 105.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 305 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 | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1130 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2730 mm |
