1979 Datsun 280 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 27 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, 2006 Volkswagen Passat (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 240 kg more than 1979 Datsun 280. 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, 2006 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, 2006 Volkswagen Passat (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 2006 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Datsun | Volkswagen |
| Model | 280 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2753 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 81.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
