1979 Datsun 280 vs. 2007 Mercury Milan
To start off, 2007 Mercury Milan 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 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercury Milan (160 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercury Milan should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280.
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 Mercury Milan, 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 Mercury Milan (203 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Mercury Milan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 2007 Mercury Milan | |
| Make | Datsun | Mercury |
| Model | 280 | Milan |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2753 cc | 2299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 66 L |
