1979 Datsun 280 vs. 2009 Honda Ridgeline
To start off, 2009 Honda Ridgeline 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 3,471 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Honda Ridgeline is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Honda Ridgeline (250 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Honda Ridgeline should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun 280 weights approximately 12 kg more than 2009 Honda Ridgeline.
Because 2009 Honda Ridgeline 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 Honda Ridgeline 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 Honda Ridgeline (335 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Honda Ridgeline will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280. 2009 Honda Ridgeline 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. 2009 Honda Ridgeline will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 2009 Honda Ridgeline | |
| Make | Datsun | Honda |
| Model | 280 | Ridgeline |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2753 cc | 3471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 250 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 335 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 16.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1193 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 5260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 3110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 83 L |
