1981 Chevrolet Suburban vs. 1979 Datsun 280
To start off, 1981 Chevrolet Suburban is newer by 2 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 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Chevrolet Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Datsun 280 (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban. (129 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 1981 Chevrolet Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Chevrolet Suburban weights approximately 960 kg more than 1979 Datsun 280.
Because 1981 Chevrolet Suburban 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, 1981 Chevrolet Suburban 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, 1981 Chevrolet Suburban (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 Chevrolet Suburban will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280. 1981 Chevrolet Suburban 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. 1981 Chevrolet Suburban will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Chevrolet Suburban | 1979 Datsun 280 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Datsun |
| Model | Suburban | 280 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1979 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 2751 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 202 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 2232 kg | 1272 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5480 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1800 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3300 mm | 2530 mm |
