1981 Nissan Skyline vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 23 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 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (238 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 149 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 503 kg more than 1981 Nissan Skyline. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Nissan Skyline 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 Skyline. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 187 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (133 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Skyline.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Nissan Skyline | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
Model | Skyline | Golf |
Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1595 cc | 3196 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 238 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
Torque | 133 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Vehicle Weight | 1045 kg | 1548 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4180 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2470 mm |