1979 Datsun 280 vs. 2011 Kia Soul
To start off, 2011 Kia Soul is newer by 32 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 2 more horse power than 2011 Kia Soul. (138 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 2011 Kia Soul. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun 280 weights approximately 86 kg more than 2011 Kia Soul. 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, 2011 Kia Soul, 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 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Kia Soul. (167 Nm @ 4850 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Kia Soul. 2011 Kia Soul 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. 2011 Kia Soul will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 2011 Kia Soul | |
| Make | Datsun | Kia |
| Model | 280 | Soul |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4850 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1186 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2550 mm |
