1979 Datsun 280 vs. 1984 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1984 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Datsun 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Datsun 280 would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Datsun 280 (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. (70 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun 280 weights approximately 119 kg more than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Datsun 280 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 1979 Datsun 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 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, 1979 Datsun 280 (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. (133 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 1984 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Datsun | Volkswagen |
| Model | 280 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1984 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2753 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 23.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1086 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 60 L |
