2009 Chevrolet Avalanche vs. 1979 Datsun 280
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche is newer by 30 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 5,300 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche (307 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280.
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, 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche (335 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280. 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche 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. 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche | 1979 Datsun 280 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Datsun |
| Model | Avalanche | 280 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5300 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 307 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 202 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.9:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3500 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1950 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3310 mm | 2330 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 117 L | 80 L |
