1973 Nissan Skyline vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Nissan Skyline. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Nissan Skyline would be higher. At 1,989 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Nissan Skyline is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Nissan Skyline (135 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Nissan Skyline should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Nissan Skyline weights approximately 336 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Nissan Skyline. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit, 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, 1973 Nissan Skyline (180 Nm @ 5600 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (104 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1973 Nissan Skyline will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
1973 Nissan Skyline | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
Model | Skyline | Rabbit |
Year Released | 1973 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1455 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 135 HP | 62 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 104 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Vehicle Weight | 1146 kg | 810 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2410 mm |