1976 Datsun Violet vs. 2011 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Datsun Violet. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Datsun Violet would be higher. At 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Passat (138 HP) has 57 more horse power than 1976 Datsun Violet. (81 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1976 Datsun Violet. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 302 kg more than 1976 Datsun Violet. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Datsun Violet 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 1976 Datsun Violet. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Volkswagen Passat (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Datsun Violet. (120 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Datsun Violet. 2011 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1976 Datsun Violet has manual transmission. 1976 Datsun Violet will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Datsun Violet | 2011 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Datsun | Volkswagen |
| Model | Violet | Passat |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 138 HP |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 945 kg | 1247 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 70 L |
