1981 Nissan Leopard vs. 2001 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2001 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 20 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, 1981 Nissan Leopard (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Nissan Leopard should accelerate faster than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 96 kg more than 1981 Nissan Leopard.

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, 2001 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 1981 Nissan Leopard (170 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. (166 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1981 Nissan Leopard will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Volkswagen Golf.

Compare all specifications:

1981 Nissan Leopard 2001 Volkswagen Golf
Make Nissan Volkswagen
Model Leopard Golf
Year Released 1981 2001
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1998 cc 1982 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 115 HP 114 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5400 RPM
Torque 170 Nm 166 Nm
Torque RPM 4400 RPM 2600 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1194 kg 1290 kg
Vehicle Length 4640 mm 4090 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1360 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2630 mm 2480 mm