1981 Nissan Leopard vs. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Leopard. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Leopard would be higher. At 1,998 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Nissan Leopard is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Leopard. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Leopard. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Nissan Leopard weights approximately 29 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Because 1981 Nissan Leopard 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 Leopard. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen New 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, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle (240 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Leopard. (170 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Leopard.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Nissan Leopard | 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
Model | Leopard | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1981 | 1999 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1786 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 115 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 170 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1194 kg | 1165 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1520 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2860 mm |