1956 Volkswagen Beetle vs. 1977 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 1977 Nissan Laurel is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,770 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Nissan Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Nissan Laurel (97 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. (34 HP @ 3900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Nissan Laurel should accelerate faster than 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Nissan Laurel weights approximately 340 kg more than 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 Nissan Laurel 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 1977 Nissan Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1956 Volkswagen 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Volkswagen Beetle | 1977 Nissan Laurel | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Nissan |
| Model | Beetle | Laurel |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1192 cc | 1770 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2680 mm |
