1979 Datsun 280 vs. 2010 Honda Civic
To start off, 2010 Honda Civic 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 2,751 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Honda Civic (198 HP) has 58 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun 280 weights approximately 5 kg more than 2010 Honda Civic.
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 Honda Civic, 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) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Honda Civic. (193 Nm). This means 1979 Datsun 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 2010 Honda Civic | |
| Make | Datsun | Honda |
| Model | 280 | Civic |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 198 HP |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 193 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 11:01 |
| Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1267 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4276 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1785 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1445 mm |
