1968 Datsun 1800 vs. 2007 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 39 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 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen Golf (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1968 Datsun 1800. (106 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1968 Datsun 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 417 kg more than 1968 Datsun 1800. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

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, 2007 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2007 Volkswagen Golf (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Datsun 1800. (156 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Datsun 1800. 2007 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1968 Datsun 1800 has manual transmission. 1968 Datsun 1800 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1968 Datsun 1800 2007 Volkswagen Golf
Make Datsun Volkswagen
Model 1800 Golf
Year Released 1968 2007
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1816 cc 1985 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 106 HP 197 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 5100 RPM
Torque 156 Nm 280 Nm
Torque RPM 3600 RPM 1800 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 8.3:1 10.3:1
Top Speed 166 km/hour 230 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 966 kg 1383 kg
Vehicle Length 4300 mm 4220 mm
Vehicle Width 1610 mm 1470 mm
Vehicle Height 1410 mm 1770 mm
Wheelbase Size 2630 mm 2580 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 52 L 55 L