2005 Volkswagen Passat vs. 1976 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Datsun 280Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Datsun 280Z would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Datsun 280Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Datsun 280Z (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Passat. (113 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 107 kg more than 1976 Datsun 280Z.
Because 1976 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 1976 Datsun 280Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1976 Datsun 280Z (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen Passat. (155 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1976 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen Passat. 1976 Datsun 280Z has automatic transmission and 2005 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2005 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Datsun 280Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Volkswagen Passat | 1976 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Datsun |
| Model | Passat | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.9 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1307 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
