1979 Datsun 280 vs. 2009 Pontiac Solstice
To start off, 2009 Pontiac Solstice 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 Pontiac Solstice (173 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Pontiac Solstice should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Pontiac Solstice weights approximately 57 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 Pontiac Solstice (226 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Pontiac Solstice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 2009 Pontiac Solstice | |
| Make | Datsun | Pontiac |
| Model | 280 | Solstice |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 2383 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 226 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2420 mm |
