2008 Chevrolet Cobalt vs. 1979 Datsun 280
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt 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 2,751 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt (171 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun 280 weights approximately 11 kg more than 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt.
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, 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt, 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, 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt (226 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt | 1979 Datsun 280 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Datsun |
| Model | Cobalt | 280 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 2751 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 202 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1261 kg | 1272 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2530 mm |
