1978 Nissan Skyline vs. 2001 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen W12 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Nissan Skyline. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Nissan Skyline would be higher. At 5,998 cc (12 cylinders), 2001 Volkswagen W12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen W12 (590 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 455 more horse power than 1978 Nissan Skyline. (135 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 1978 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volkswagen W12 weights approximately 55 kg more than 1978 Nissan Skyline. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Volkswagen W12 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 2001 Volkswagen W12. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Nissan Skyline, 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, 2001 Volkswagen W12 (620 Nm @ 5800 RPM) has 440 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Nissan Skyline. (180 Nm @ 5600 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Nissan Skyline.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Nissan Skyline | 2001 Volkswagen W12 | |
Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
Model | Skyline | W12 |
Year Released | 1978 | 2001 |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 1989 cc | 5998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | W |
Horse Power | 135 HP | 590 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 620 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 1200 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4560 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1930 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1110 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |