1979 Datsun 280 vs. 2011 Nissan Pathfinder
To start off, 2011 Nissan Pathfinder 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 4,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Nissan Pathfinder is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Nissan Pathfinder (266 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Pathfinder should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Nissan Pathfinder weights approximately 849 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.
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 Pathfinder (390 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 188 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Nissan Pathfinder will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280. 2011 Nissan Pathfinder 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 Nissan Pathfinder will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 2011 Nissan Pathfinder | |
| Make | Datsun | Nissan |
| Model | 280 | Pathfinder |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 4000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 266 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 390 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 2121 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4884 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1849 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1834 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2850 mm |
