1979 Datsun 280 vs. 2012 Mini Cooper Coupe
To start off, 2012 Mini Cooper Coupe 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, 2012 Mini Cooper Coupe (208 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mini Cooper Coupe should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun 280 weights approximately 47 kg more than 2012 Mini Cooper Coupe.
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, 2012 Mini Cooper Coupe, 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, 2012 Mini Cooper Coupe (260 Nm @ 1850 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Mini Cooper Coupe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 2012 Mini Cooper Coupe | |
| Make | Datsun | Mini |
| Model | 280 | Cooper Coupe |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| 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 | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1850 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 3734 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1684 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1384 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2466 mm |
