2003 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1977 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Datsun 260Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Datsun 260Z would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (238 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1977 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1977 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 448 kg more than 1977 Datsun 260Z. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 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 1977 Datsun 260Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Datsun 260Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Volkswagen Golf | 1977 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Datsun |
| Model | Golf | 260Z |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3196 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1548 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.1 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12.4 L/100km | 12 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 60 L |
