1979 Datsun 280 vs. 2009 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen T5 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 Volkswagen T5 (172 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen T5 should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 1035 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.
Because 2009 Volkswagen T5 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 Volkswagen T5 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 Volkswagen T5 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 198 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 2009 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Datsun | Volkswagen |
| Model | 280 | T5 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 181 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 3010 mm |
