1999 Buick Regal vs. 1979 Datsun 280
To start off, 1999 Buick Regal is newer by 20 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 3,789 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Buick Regal is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Buick Regal (197 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Buick Regal should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Buick Regal weights approximately 355 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, 1999 Buick Regal, 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, 1999 Buick Regal (311 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Buick Regal will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280. 1999 Buick Regal 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. 1999 Buick Regal will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Buick Regal | 1979 Datsun 280 | |
| Make | Buick | Datsun |
| Model | Regal | 280 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3789 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 202 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2330 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 80 L |
