2004 Volkswagen Passat vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 26 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 40 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Passat. (123 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 185 kg more than 1978 Datsun 260Z.
Because 2004 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Datsun 260Z. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Passat will offer significantly more control. 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, 2004 Volkswagen Passat (310 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 260Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Volkswagen Passat | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Datsun |
| Model | Passat | 260Z |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.6 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.4 seconds | 8 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2581 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
