1989 Chevrolet Camaro vs. 1979 Datsun 280
To start off, 1989 Chevrolet Camaro is newer by 10 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 5,735 cc (8 cylinders), 1989 Chevrolet Camaro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Chevrolet Camaro (238 HP @ 4300 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Chevrolet Camaro should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280.
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, 1989 Chevrolet Camaro (467 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 265 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1989 Chevrolet Camaro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Chevrolet Camaro | 1979 Datsun 280 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Datsun |
| Model | Camaro | 280 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5735 cc | 2751 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 467 Nm | 202 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.4 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2530 mm |
