1984 Volkswagen Passat vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 1984 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 6 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 @ 5600 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Datsun 260Z weights approximately 155 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 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, 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, 1978 Datsun 260Z (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. (101 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 1978 Datsun 260Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. 1978 Datsun 260Z has automatic transmission and 1984 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1984 Volkswagen Passat 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:
1984 Volkswagen Passat | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
Make | Volkswagen | Datsun |
Model | Passat | 260Z |
Year Released | 1984 | 1978 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2565 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 53 HP | 163 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 101 Nm | 213 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 79 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1045 kg | 1200 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4450 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2581 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 60 L |