1979 Datsun 280 vs. 2004 Honda Civic
To start off, 2004 Honda Civic 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 2,751 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Datsun 280 (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2004 Honda Civic. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 2004 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun 280 weights approximately 118 kg more than 2004 Honda Civic. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Datsun 280 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1979 Datsun 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Honda Civic, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1979 Datsun 280 (202 Nm) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Honda Civic. (149 Nm). This means 1979 Datsun 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Honda Civic. 2004 Honda Civic 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. 2004 Honda Civic will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Datsun 280 | 2004 Honda Civic | |
Make | Datsun | Honda |
Model | 280 | Civic |
Year Released | 1979 | 2004 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2751 cc | 1668 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 140 HP | 118 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 202 Nm | 149 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1154 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2590 mm |