1997 Chevrolet Express vs. 1979 Datsun 280
To start off, 1997 Chevrolet Express 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 5,735 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chevrolet Express (252 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Express should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Express weights approximately 1118 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.
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 (448 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 246 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Express will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280. 1997 Chevrolet Express 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 Express will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Chevrolet Express | 1979 Datsun 280 | |
Make | Chevrolet | Datsun |
Model | Express | 280 |
Year Released | 1997 | 1979 |
Body Type | Van | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5735 cc | 2751 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 252 HP | 140 HP |
Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 448 Nm | 202 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 2390 kg | 1272 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 4550 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3440 mm | 2530 mm |