1981 Nissan Leopard vs. 2009 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 28 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 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Nissan Leopard is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Nissan Leopard (134 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen T5. (104 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Nissan Leopard should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen T5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 1030 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, 2009 Volkswagen T5, 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, 2009 Volkswagen T5 (251 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Leopard. (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Leopard.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Nissan Leopard | 2009 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Leopard | T5 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2753 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 2270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 3010 mm |
