2004 Chevrolet Venture vs. 1979 Datsun 280
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Venture is newer by 25 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 3,392 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Venture is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chevrolet Venture (186 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Venture should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Venture weights approximately 406 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, 2004 Chevrolet Venture, 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, 2004 Chevrolet Venture (285 Nm) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm). This means 2004 Chevrolet Venture will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chevrolet Venture | 1979 Datsun 280 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Datsun |
| Model | Venture | 280 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3392 cc | 2751 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 186 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 202 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1678 kg | 1272 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2530 mm |
