1979 Datsun 280 vs. 2009 Toyota Corolla
To start off, 2009 Toyota Corolla 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, 1979 Datsun 280 (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2009 Toyota Corolla. (96 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 2009 Toyota Corolla.
Because 1979 Datsun 280 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1979 Datsun 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Toyota Corolla, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1979 Datsun 280 (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Toyota Corolla. (130 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Toyota Corolla.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 2009 Toyota Corolla | |
| Make | Datsun | Toyota |
| Model | 280 | Corolla |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 1398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 79.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 71.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2610 mm |
