1971 Nissan Skyline vs. 1989 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1989 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Nissan Skyline. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Nissan Skyline would be higher. At 1,998 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Nissan Skyline is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Volkswagen Golf (210 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1971 Nissan Skyline. (89 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1971 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Nissan Skyline weights approximately 300 kg more than 1989 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1989 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 Nissan Skyline. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Volkswagen Golf 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, 1989 Volkswagen Golf (252 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Nissan Skyline. (160 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1989 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Nissan Skyline.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Nissan Skyline | 1989 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Skyline | Golf |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1780 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2480 mm |
