1974 Nissan Skyline vs. 2011 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Nissan Skyline. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Nissan Skyline would be higher. At 1,988 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Nissan Skyline is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Nissan Skyline (135 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Beetle. (114 HP @ 2400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Nissan Skyline should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 85 kg more than 1974 Nissan Skyline.
Because 1974 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 1974 Nissan Skyline. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen 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, 1974 Nissan Skyline (180 Nm @ 5600 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volkswagen Beetle. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1974 Nissan Skyline will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Nissan Skyline | 2011 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Skyline | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2510 mm |
