2002 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 1977 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Datsun 280Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Datsun 280Z would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Datsun 280Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Datsun 280Z (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. (74 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Datsun 280Z 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 44 kg more than 1977 Datsun 280Z.
Because 1977 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 1977 Datsun 280Z. 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, 1977 Datsun 280Z (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. (125 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1977 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. 1977 Datsun 280Z 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. 1977 Datsun 280Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle | 1977 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Datsun |
| Model | New Beetle | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1422 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| 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 | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
