1979 Datsun 280 vs. 2006 MG TF
To start off, 2006 MG TF 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 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 MG TF (159 HP @ 6900 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 MG TF should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun 280 weights approximately 15 kg more than 2006 MG TF.
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, 1979 Datsun 280 (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 MG TF. (174 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 MG TF.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 2006 MG TF | |
| Make | Datsun | MG |
| Model | 280 | TF |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2753 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 159 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6900 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 89.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2380 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 50 L |
