1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia vs. 1981 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 1981 Nissan Skyline is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 1,951 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Nissan Skyline is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Nissan Skyline (111 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (52 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Nissan Skyline should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Nissan Skyline weights approximately 221 kg more than 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. 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. 1981 Nissan Skyline has automatic transmission and 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia has manual transmission. 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Nissan Skyline will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | 1981 Nissan Skyline | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Nissan |
| Model | Karmann-Ghia | Skyline |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1493 cc | 1951 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 52 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 864 kg | 1085 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2620 mm |
