1984 Daimler 4.2 vs. 1977 Datsun 280
To start off, 1984 Daimler 4.2 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Datsun 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Datsun 280 would be higher. At 4,235 cc (6 cylinders), 1984 Daimler 4.2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Daimler 4.2 (205 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1977 Datsun 280. (125 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1984 Daimler 4.2 should accelerate faster than 1977 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Daimler 4.2 weights approximately 455 kg more than 1977 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, 1984 Daimler 4.2 (314 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Datsun 280. (197 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1984 Daimler 4.2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Daimler 4.2 | 1977 Datsun 280 | |
| Make | Daimler | Datsun |
| Model | 4.2 | 280 |
| Year Released | 1984 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4235 cc | 2751 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 205 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 314 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 106 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4950 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2700 mm |
