1979 Datsun 280 vs. 2006 Hyundai Tiburon
To start off, 2006 Hyundai Tiburon is newer by 27 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 2 more horse power than 2006 Hyundai Tiburon. (138 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 2006 Hyundai Tiburon.
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, 2006 Hyundai Tiburon, 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 @ 4000 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Hyundai Tiburon. (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Hyundai Tiburon.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 2006 Hyundai Tiburon | |
| Make | Datsun | Hyundai |
| Model | 280 | Tiburon |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 93.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2540 mm |
