2009 Chrysler 300 vs. 1979 Datsun 280
To start off, 2009 Chrysler 300 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 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chrysler 300 (178 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler 300 should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler 300 weights approximately 668 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, 2009 Chrysler 300 (258 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Chrysler 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280. 2009 Chrysler 300 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 Chrysler 300 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chrysler 300 | 1979 Datsun 280 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Datsun |
| Model | 300 | 280 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2736 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 202 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.5 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.9:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1873 kg | 1205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3050 mm | 2330 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 80 L |
