1979 Datsun 280 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 26 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 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK (167 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 460 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK (245 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Datsun | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 280 | CLK |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2753 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1665 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 62 L |
