1968 Datsun 1800 vs. 1973 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1973 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Datsun 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Datsun 1800 would be higher. At 1,816 cc (4 cylinders), 1968 Datsun 1800 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Volkswagen Passat (108 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1968 Datsun 1800. (106 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1968 Datsun 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Datsun 1800 weights approximately 56 kg more than 1973 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 1968 Datsun 1800 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 1968 Datsun 1800. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 1968 Datsun 1800 (156 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. (140 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1968 Datsun 1800 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Datsun 1800 | 1973 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Datsun | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1800 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1816 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2480 mm |
