2008 Volkswagen Passat vs. 1976 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Datsun 260Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Datsun 260Z would be higher. At 2,565 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Datsun 260Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1976 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1976 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 250 kg more than 1976 Datsun 260Z. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1976 Datsun 260Z. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Datsun 260Z. 2008 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1976 Datsun 260Z has manual transmission. 1976 Datsun 260Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen Passat | 1976 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Datsun |
| Model | Passat | 260Z |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 8.4 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12.4 L/100km | 12 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
