1979 Volkswagen Passat vs. 1971 Datsun 240Z
To start off, 1979 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Datsun 240Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Datsun 240Z would be higher. At 2,393 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Datsun 240Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Datsun 240Z (151 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Datsun 240Z should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Datsun 240Z weights approximately 188 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Datsun 240Z 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 1971 Datsun 240Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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, 1971 Datsun 240Z (198 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (95 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1971 Datsun 240Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Volkswagen Passat | 1971 Datsun 240Z | |
Make | Volkswagen | Datsun |
Model | Passat | 240Z |
Year Released | 1979 | 1971 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1272 cc | 2393 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 59 HP | 151 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 95 Nm | 198 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 73.7 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1068 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4140 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1630 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2300 mm |