1980 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 1980 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 2 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, 1978 Datsun 260Z (163 HP) has 104 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Datsun 260Z weights approximately 375 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. 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, 1980 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 1978 Datsun 260Z (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (95 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1978 Datsun 260Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. 1978 Datsun 260Z has automatic transmission and 1980 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 1980 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Datsun 260Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1980 Volkswagen Jetta | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
Make | Volkswagen | Datsun |
Model | Jetta | 260Z |
Year Released | 1980 | 1978 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1272 cc | 2565 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 59 HP | 163 HP |
Torque | 95 Nm | 213 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 8.3:1 |
Top Speed | 142 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 825 kg | 1200 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4450 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2581 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 60 L |