1979 Datsun 280 vs. 2013 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2013 Subaru Outback is newer by 34 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, 2013 Subaru Outback (171 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Subaru Outback weights approximately 336 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.
Because 2013 Subaru Outback is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Datsun 280. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Subaru Outback 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, 2013 Subaru Outback (236 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2013 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280. 2013 Subaru Outback 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. 2013 Subaru Outback will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 2013 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Datsun | Subaru |
| Model | 280 | Outback |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 16 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 171 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1608 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 2050 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2740 mm |
