1981 Nissan Laurel vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Nissan Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (85 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 150 kg more than 1981 Nissan Laurel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Nissan Laurel 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 1981 Nissan Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (167 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Laurel. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle has automatic transmission and 1981 Nissan Laurel has manual transmission. 1981 Nissan Laurel will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Nissan Laurel | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
Model | Laurel | Beetle |
Year Released | 1981 | 2013 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2792 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 85 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 167 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 1360 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4277 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1473 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2537 mm |