1979 Datsun 280 vs. 2009 Ford F-350
To start off, 2009 Ford F-350 is newer by 30 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 5,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Ford F-350 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford F-350 (301 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 161 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford F-350 should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun 280 weights approximately 306 kg more than 2009 Ford F-350.
Because 2009 Ford F-350 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, 2009 Ford F-350 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, 2009 Ford F-350 (495 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 293 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Ford F-350 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 2009 Ford F-350 | |
| Make | Datsun | Ford |
| Model | 280 | F-350 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 5400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 301 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 495 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 966 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 5890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 2040 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 2050 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 3610 mm |
