1979 Datsun 280 vs. 2002 Ford Focus
To start off, 2002 Ford Focus is newer by 23 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, 1979 Datsun 280 (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2002 Ford Focus. (129 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Focus weights approximately 58 kg more than 1979 Datsun 280.
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, 2002 Ford Focus, 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, 2002 Ford Focus (330 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 2002 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Datsun | Ford |
| Model | 280 | Focus |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2620 mm |
