1973 Nissan Skyline vs. 1997 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen W12 is newer by 24 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 5,600 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen W12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen W12 (420 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 285 more horse power than 1973 Nissan Skyline. (135 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 1973 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen W12 weights approximately 54 kg more than 1973 Nissan Skyline. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1997 Volkswagen W12 (719 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 539 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Nissan Skyline. (180 Nm @ 5600 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Nissan Skyline.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Nissan Skyline | 1997 Volkswagen W12 | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Skyline | W12 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 5600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 420 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 719 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1146 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2550 mm |
