1992 Chevrolet Lumina vs. 1979 Datsun 280
To start off, 1992 Chevrolet Lumina is newer by 13 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 3,350 cc (6 cylinders), 1992 Chevrolet Lumina is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Chevrolet Lumina (210 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 Chevrolet Lumina should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Chevrolet Lumina weights approximately 269 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 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, 1992 Chevrolet Lumina, 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, 1992 Chevrolet Lumina (292 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1992 Chevrolet Lumina will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Chevrolet Lumina | 1979 Datsun 280 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Datsun |
| Model | Lumina | 280 |
| Year Released | 1992 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3350 cc | 2751 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 292 Nm | 202 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1541 kg | 1272 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2530 mm |
