1997 Chevrolet Express vs. 1977 Datsun 280
To start off, 1997 Chevrolet Express is newer by 20 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 6,505 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chevrolet Express (193 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1977 Datsun 280. (125 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Express should accelerate faster than 1977 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Express weights approximately 1025 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, 1997 Chevrolet Express (583 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 386 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Datsun 280. (197 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Express will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Datsun 280. 1997 Chevrolet Express has automatic transmission and 1977 Datsun 280 has manual transmission. 1977 Datsun 280 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Chevrolet Express will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Express | 1977 Datsun 280 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Datsun |
| Model | Express | 280 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Van | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6505 cc | 2751 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 193 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 583 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 2400 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3440 mm | 2700 mm |
