1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1979 Datsun 280
To start off, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 18 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 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Datsun 280 (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (115 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun 280 weights approximately 17 kg more than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. 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, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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, 1979 Datsun 280 (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier 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. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1979 Datsun 280 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Datsun |
| Model | Cavalier | 280 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 202 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2330 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 80 L |
