2006 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 1975 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Datsun 280Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Datsun 280Z would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1975 Datsun 280Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Datsun 280Z (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 2400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1975 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Datsun 280Z weights approximately 38 kg more than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 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 1975 Datsun 280Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1975 Datsun 280Z (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1975 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | 1975 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Datsun |
| Model | New Beetle | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1975 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 2400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1162 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
