1979 Datsun 280 vs. 2010 Buick Lucerne
To start off, 2010 Buick Lucerne is newer by 31 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 3,900 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Buick Lucerne is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Buick Lucerne (227 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Buick Lucerne should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Buick Lucerne weights approximately 422 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 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, 2010 Buick Lucerne, 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, 2010 Buick Lucerne (321 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2010 Buick Lucerne will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280. 2010 Buick Lucerne 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. 2010 Buick Lucerne will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 2010 Buick Lucerne | |
| Make | Datsun | Buick |
| Model | 280 | Lucerne |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 3900 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 321 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1694 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 5161 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1875 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2936 mm |
