1978 Datsun 260Z vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Datsun 260Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Datsun 260Z would be higher. At 2,565 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Datsun 260Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 345 kg more than 1978 Datsun 260Z. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Datsun 260Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 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 1978 Datsun 260Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Datsun 260Z | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Datsun | Volkswagen |
| Model | 260Z | Passat |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| 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 | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 213 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8 seconds | 7.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4135 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
