1979 Datsun 280 vs. 2004 TVR Tuscan
To start off, 2004 TVR Tuscan 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 3,605 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 TVR Tuscan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 TVR Tuscan (350 HP @ 7200 RPM) has 210 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 TVR Tuscan should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun 280 weights approximately 72 kg more than 2004 TVR Tuscan.
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 TVR Tuscan (402 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 TVR Tuscan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 2004 TVR Tuscan | |
| Make | Datsun | TVR |
| Model | 280 | Tuscan |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 3605 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 350 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 7200 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 402 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 83 mm |
| Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 280 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 | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2370 mm |
