2008 Cadillac CTS vs. 1979 Datsun 280
To start off, 2008 Cadillac CTS is newer by 29 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, 2008 Cadillac CTS (179 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 583 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, 2008 Cadillac CTS (233 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Cadillac CTS | 1979 Datsun 280 | |
| Make | Cadillac | Datsun |
| Model | CTS | 280 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2597 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 179 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 202 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.2 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.6 mm | 79 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1788 kg | 1205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2330 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 80 L |
