2006 Volkswagen Passat vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 28 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 2 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen Passat. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 118 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, 2006 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, 1978 Datsun 280Z (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen Passat. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1978 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Volkswagen Passat | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Datsun |
| Model | Passat | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | 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 | 148 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1318 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4399 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
