1980 Audi 200 vs. 1979 Datsun 280
To start off, 1980 Audi 200 is newer by 1 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, 1980 Audi 200 (170 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Audi 200 should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun 280 weights approximately 6 kg more than 1980 Audi 200.
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, 1980 Audi 200, 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, 1980 Audi 200 (265 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1980 Audi 200 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Audi 200 | 1979 Datsun 280 | |
| Make | Audi | Datsun |
| Model | 200 | 280 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2144 cc | 2751 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 202 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1266 kg | 1272 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2530 mm |
