1994 Volkswagen Parati vs. 1976 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1994 Volkswagen Parati is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Datsun 280Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Datsun 280Z would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Datsun 280Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Datsun 280Z (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1994 Volkswagen Parati. (89 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 1994 Volkswagen Parati. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Datsun 280Z weights approximately 329 kg more than 1994 Volkswagen Parati. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Datsun 280Z 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 1976 Datsun 280Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 Volkswagen Parati, 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, 1976 Datsun 280Z (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Volkswagen Parati. (150 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1976 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Volkswagen Parati.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Volkswagen Parati | 1976 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Datsun |
| Model | Parati | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1994 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 975 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2304 mm |
