1978 Nissan Skyline vs. 2005 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 27 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 1,998 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Nissan Skyline is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1978 Nissan Skyline. (106 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1978 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 255 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 1978 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 1978 Nissan Skyline. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (286 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Nissan Skyline. (163 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Nissan Skyline.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Nissan Skyline | 2005 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Skyline | Passat |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1901 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 286 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2710 mm |
