1979 Datsun 280 vs. 2012 Fiat Panda
To start off, 2012 Fiat Panda is newer by 33 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 81 more horse power than 2012 Fiat Panda. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 2012 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun 280 weights approximately 228 kg more than 2012 Fiat Panda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Fiat Panda is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Datsun 280. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Fiat Panda will offer significantly more control. 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 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Fiat Panda. (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 2012 Fiat Panda | |
| Make | Datsun | Fiat |
| Model | 280 | Panda |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 1242 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 70.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 145 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1044 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 3540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2310 mm |
