1974 Datsun 260Z vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Datsun 260Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Datsun 260Z would be higher. At 2,771 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (190 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1974 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1974 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 150 kg more than 1974 Datsun 260Z. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 Datsun 260Z. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (280 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Datsun 260Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Datsun 260Z | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Datsun | Volkswagen |
| Model | 260Z | Passat |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2565 cc | 2771 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 213 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 232 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8 seconds | 8.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2581 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 62 L |
