1973 Nissan Skyline vs. 2011 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Rabbit is newer by 38 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 2,480 cc (5 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Rabbit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Rabbit (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1973 Nissan Skyline. (135 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Rabbit should accelerate faster than 1973 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Rabbit weights approximately 101 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.
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, 2011 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, 2011 Volkswagen Rabbit (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Nissan Skyline. (180 Nm @ 5600 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Rabbit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Nissan Skyline.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Nissan Skyline | 2011 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Skyline | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 2480 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5600 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1146 kg | 1247 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2580 mm |
