1979 Datsun 280 vs. 2007 Nissan Hardbody
To start off, 2007 Nissan Hardbody 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 2,751 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Nissan Hardbody (148 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Nissan Hardbody should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Nissan Hardbody weights approximately 357 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 2007 Nissan Hardbody is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Datsun 280. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Nissan Hardbody will offer significantly more control. 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 Nissan Hardbody (208 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Nissan Hardbody will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 2007 Nissan Hardbody | |
| Make | Datsun | Nissan |
| Model | 280 | Hardbody |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 2388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 208 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1629 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2960 mm |
