1974 Datsun 260Z vs. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 35 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 2,565 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Datsun 260Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Datsun 260Z (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen Jetta. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 1110 kg more than 1974 Datsun 260Z.
Because 1974 Datsun 260Z 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 1974 Datsun 260Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 1974 Datsun 260Z (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volkswagen Jetta. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1974 Datsun 260Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Datsun 260Z | 2009 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Datsun | Volkswagen |
| Model | 260Z | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2565 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 213 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 189 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8 seconds | 11.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 2310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2581 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
