1979 Datsun 280 vs. 2012 Porsche Cayman
To start off, 2012 Porsche Cayman 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 3,400 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Porsche Cayman is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Porsche Cayman (330 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 190 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Porsche Cayman should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Porsche Cayman weights approximately 78 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, 2012 Porsche Cayman (370 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Porsche Cayman will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 2012 Porsche Cayman | |
| Make | Datsun | Porsche |
| Model | 280 | Cayman |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 3400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | boxer |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 330 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4346 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1306 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2416 mm |
