1979 Datsun 280 vs. 2006 Peugeot 407
To start off, 2006 Peugeot 407 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 2,946 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Peugeot 407 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Peugeot 407 (208 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Peugeot 407 should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Peugeot 407 weights approximately 388 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, 2006 Peugeot 407, 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, 2006 Peugeot 407 (290 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Peugeot 407 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280. 2006 Peugeot 407 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. 2006 Peugeot 407 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 2006 Peugeot 407 | |
| Make | Datsun | Peugeot |
| Model | 280 | 407 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 2946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.9:1 |
| Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2730 mm |
