2002 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 1975 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Datsun 260Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Datsun 260Z would be higher. At 2,565 cc (6 cylinders), 1975 Datsun 260Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Datsun 260Z (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. (74 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1975 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 144 kg more than 1975 Datsun 260Z.
Because 1975 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 1975 Datsun 260Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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, 1975 Datsun 260Z (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. (125 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1975 Datsun 260Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. 1975 Datsun 260Z has automatic transmission and 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1975 Datsun 260Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle | 1975 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Datsun |
| Model | New Beetle | 260Z |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1975 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1422 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1244 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
