1971 Nissan Skyline vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 33 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (115 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1971 Nissan Skyline. (89 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1971 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 305 kg more than 1971 Nissan Skyline. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Nissan Skyline 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 1971 Nissan Skyline. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (165 Nm) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Nissan Skyline. (160 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Nissan Skyline.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Nissan Skyline | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Skyline | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2410 mm |
