1981 Nissan Skyline vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 31 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 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Nissan Skyline is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (85 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 162 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, 2012 Volkswagen 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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Skyline.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Nissan Skyline | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
Model | Skyline | Beetle |
Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2792 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 85 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 170 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1700 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1218 kg | 1380 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4278 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1486 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2537 mm |