1979 Datsun 280 vs. 2007 Dodge Grand Caravan
To start off, 2007 Dodge Grand Caravan is newer by 28 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 3,778 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Dodge Grand Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Dodge Grand Caravan (201 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Dodge Grand Caravan should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Dodge Grand Caravan weights approximately 88 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, 2007 Dodge Grand Caravan, 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, 2007 Dodge Grand Caravan (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Dodge Grand Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280. 2007 Dodge Grand Caravan 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. 2007 Dodge Grand Caravan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 2007 Dodge Grand Caravan | |
| Make | Datsun | Dodge |
| Model | 280 | Grand Caravan |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 3778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 319 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| 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 | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 3040 mm |
