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 (300 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 160 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 239 kg more than 2009 Ford F-350.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 | 2753 cc | 5400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 495 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 966 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 5770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 2040 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1940 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 3490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 144 L |
