1979 Datsun 280 vs. 2007 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 28 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 2,751 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 101 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, 2007 Volkswagen Golf, 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 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Volkswagen Golf. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Volkswagen Golf. 2007 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1979 Datsun 280 has manual transmission. 1979 Datsun 280 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 2007 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Datsun | Volkswagen |
| Model | 280 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1373 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2580 mm |
