2004 Volkswagen Passat vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
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 280Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Datsun 280Z would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Datsun 280Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Datsun 280Z (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Passat. (128 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 365 kg more than 1978 Datsun 280Z.
Because 1978 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 1978 Datsun 280Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 2004 Volkswagen Passat (350 Nm) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 280Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Volkswagen Passat | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Datsun |
| Model | Passat | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 60 L |
