1979 Datsun 280 vs. 2011 Nissan Frontier
To start off, 2011 Nissan Frontier 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, 2011 Nissan Frontier (152 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Frontier should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2011 Nissan Frontier (232 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Nissan Frontier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 2011 Nissan Frontier | |
| Make | Datsun | Nissan |
| Model | 280 | Frontier |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 2488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 152 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 232 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 5230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 3200 mm |
