1981 Nissan Skyline 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 Skyline. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Skyline would be higher. At 1,997 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Nissan Skyline is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Nissan Skyline (106 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. (89 HP @ 3750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Nissan Skyline should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 58 kg more than 1981 Nissan Skyline.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (210 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (162 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Skyline.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Nissan Skyline | 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Skyline | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1248 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2510 mm |
