1979 Datsun 280 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2,751 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (182 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 218 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.
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 Mercedes-Benz C (250 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Datsun | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 280 | C |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 1796 cc |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 228 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1470 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2770 mm |
