1979 Datsun 280 vs. 2005 Toyota Sienna

To start off, 2005 Toyota Sienna 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 3,298 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Toyota Sienna is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Toyota Sienna (230 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Toyota Sienna should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Toyota Sienna weights approximately 597 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.

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, 2005 Toyota Sienna, 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, 2005 Toyota Sienna (344 Nm) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm). This means 2005 Toyota Sienna will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280. 2005 Toyota Sienna 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. 2005 Toyota Sienna will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1979 Datsun 280 2005 Toyota Sienna
Make Datsun Toyota
Model 280 Sienna
Year Released 1979 2005
Body Type Hatchback Minivan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2751 cc 3298 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Horse Power 140 HP 230 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 5300 RPM
Torque 202 Nm 344 Nm
Engine Bore Size 86 mm 92 mm
Engine Stroke Size 79 mm 83 mm
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 7 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1272 kg 1869 kg
Vehicle Length 4550 mm 5090 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1970 mm
Vehicle Height 1310 mm 1760 mm
Wheelbase Size 2530 mm 3040 mm